What Is Cataract?

​

A cataract is a cloudy area in the lens of the eye that leads to a decrease in vision. Cataracts often develop slowly and can affect one or both eyes. The underlying mechanism involves accumulation of clumps of protein or yellow-brown pigment in the lens that reduces the amount of light that reaches the retina at the back of the eye. They are most commonly age related, but can be present at birth.

​

Cataract Symptoms

 

A decrease in vision that  may result in trouble driving, reading, or recognizing faces. You might also notice:

• Changes to colour vision

• Blurry vision 

• Double vision in one eye

• Halos around lights

• Trouble with vision in bright lighting

• Trouble seeing at night

​

Cataract Causes

 

Risk factors for cataract include:

• Increasing age

• Diabetes

• Longstanding use of steroid medication

• Smoking tobacco

• Prolonged exposure to sunlight

• Trauma

​

Cataract Treatment

 

Often cataract does not require treatment. When treatment is required it is done by an ophthalmic surgeon – almost always as an out-patient procedure. Our optometrist Graham is fully accredited to perform a pre-surgery assessment of your eyes and refer you accordingly. After the operation he is also fully accredited to resume your care and perform a post surgery assessment meaning that you are spared another trip to the eye clinic.