Cataracts cause your eye lens to get cloudy and may even result in total vision loss if left untreated. If you have cataracts, the experienced optometry team at VistaSite Eye Care in New York City offers expert cataracts evaluation and management, as well as postsurgical care if have cataract surgery. To learn more about cataract evaluations and management at VistaSite Eye Care, call or use online booking to schedule an appointment at the nearest office in Brooklyn, Manhattan, the Bronx, Valley Stream, or Washington Heights today.
Cataracts are cloudy protein deposits within the eye lenses. As time goes on, these deposits slowly spread until they take over all or most of the lens. This makes it difficult or even impossible to see clearly, and in some cases cataracts can lead to blindness if not treated properly.
The most common cause of cataracts is age-related eye changes. Cataracts can develop when you're in your 40s or 50s, but they don't tend to cause vision problems until you're in your 60s or later.
Although age is the main reason for cataracts, there are other possible causes, including:
The only way to know for certain is to have a cataract evaluation. If you have any of the following symptoms, it’s time for an evaluation.
You may have only cloudy vision now, but if you ignore the problem you’ll likely end up having other symptoms as well.
In some cases, cataracts aren't severe enough to require surgery, at least not yet. Your optometrist develops a cataract management plan, often starting with a change in prescription for your glasses or contact lenses.
Cataract surgery is the only way to remove cataracts, and it's therefore the most common treatment for problematic cataracts. If that step is necessary, your optometrist at VistaSite Eye Care recommends a highly skilled surgeon who replaces your lens with an intraocular lens that allows for clear vision. After your cataract surgery, you'll continue to see your optometrist for follow-up care.
If you’re having cataract problems, the VistaSite Eye Care team can help. Call or schedule an appointment using online booking today to learn more.