Changes in your vision can always be worrisome, especially if those changes show up and never seem to go away. One of the most common causes of cloudy spots in the vision is cataracts. Cataracts create fuzzy or blurred areas in your field of vision, and you may even see a high sensitivity level to glare. At Rouse Family Eye Care in Weston, FL, we will work with you to diagnose cataracts and help you determine what route of treatment would be best.

Cataracts Explained

It is simple to recognize cataracts when they form because of their telltale symptoms, but most patients have the question of what cataracts actually are. In the most general terms, cataracts are a collection of proteins that gather on the eye lens/ This collection of proteins can prevent light from streaming through, which will make your vision appear clouded or blurry. You may even be able to see a clouded area on your eye if you stand in the light and look in the mirror.

What Are the Likely Causes of Cataracts?

The most common cause of cataracts is age. The condition is relatively common among people over the age of 65, and the older you get, the more likely it will be that cataracts develop. However, cataracts can also be a congenital condition, which means it is a condition that someone is born with. It is not unheard-of for a baby to be born with cataracts or for cataracts to show up later in childhood. Secondary medical conditions can also be related to cataract development. For example, if you have diabetes, you may be more at risk. The condition can also develop as a result of some kind of traumatic injury to the eye or if you take certain medications.

How Cataracts Are Treated

The most common way for cataracts to be treated is through surgery. During cataract surgery, the doctor uses a microscopic laser to make an incision in the eye, remove the cataract-affected lens, and insert an artificial lens that is not clouded. The surgery is usually recommended if other levels of treatment have not worked. For example, some doctors may recommend glasses that have anti-glare lenses. For people who have only mild cataract formation, it can be helpful for them to simply brighten the lights when they are reading or have a difficult time seeing. If the cataracts are getting in the way of normal everyday activities, such as driving or seeing well enough to get around, surgery is most often the best solution.

Who Is Most At Risk of Cataract Development?

As already noted, people who are older tend to be most at risk for cataract development. However, there is a list of other risk factors that seem to be associated with this eye condition, such as:

• Having diabetes, high blood pressure, or even heart disease
• Having a family history of cataracts
• People who smoke
• People who do not eat a healthy diet or are obese

Certain vitamins are thought to help prevent cataract development. For example, taking in enough vitamin C may help deter cataract formation. Therefore, eating a healthy diet filled with fresh fruits and veggies may help lower your risks.

Find Out More About Cataract Diagnosis and Treatment in Weston, FL

Cataracts can greatly affect your vision, but there may be treatments available that can help. If you believe that you have cataracts or you would like to know more about cataract treatment, reach out to us at Rouse Family Eye Care in Weston, FL. We offer a full lineup of eye care services for every member of the family, and we do so in a comfortable setting. Let us help you make an appointment.