A Cataract is a clouding of the lens that is positioned directly behind the iris and pupil, which are the colored parts of your eye. As we age or under certain other conditions a cataract may form in one or both eyes. Typically, by the time a person reaches their mid 50’s, the signs of cataract formation are visible, but most people have no symptoms from them. Some people begin to experience symptoms as early as age 40. Knowing the signs and symptoms of cataracts is important so that you can be screened before the lens becomes completely clouded by the cataract. What Causes Cataracts to Form? Our lens functions similarly to a camera by focusing and adjusting light to the back of the eye, helping us to see near or far and transferring the image to the retina that records it. This lens is made of proteins arranged in a certain order that keep it clear. But as we age, these proteins begin shifting out of sequence, adhering to each other, leading to clouding of the vision and formation of a cataract. Often this type of cataract is referred to as an Age-Related Cataract. Other Potential Cataract Causes: Trauma to the eye Diabetes Smoking Excessive amounts of alcohol Prolonged use of corticosteroids (Steroids) Obesity Exposure to certain types of radiation Long-term exposure to ultraviolet rays Secondary formation from glaucoma surgery or other eye conditions Congenital How Do Cataracts Affect My Vision? As the lens becomes cloudy, over years it can become yellow or brown that may change your color perception. Often those with progressing cataracts experience a dulling or blurring of their eyesight, and eventually, difficulty reading and/or driving. Other types of cataracts can progress more quickly and need surgical treatment sooner than expected. Types of Cataracts Nuclear Cataracts- affecting center of lens (Typical of aging) Cortical Cataracts-affecting edges of lens (Causing glare problems earlier) Posterior Subcapsular Cataracts- affecting back of lens (Progress quicker) Congenital Cataracts- occurring at birth Traumatic Cataracts – from serious injury If you think you or someone you know may be experiencing a cataract, you can schedule a consultation with one of our doctors by filling out the form below, or call our offices at (281) 890-1784 to schedule at one of these locations: Willowbrook /Dotson Rd, North Cypress Professional Bldg or our Barker Cypress Office.