At Eye Site, serving Katy and Houston, TX, we know how much clear vision matters to your daily life. Cataracts are a common condition that can affect your eyesight, but understanding what they are and how they can be treated will help you make informed decisions about your eye health. Below, we’ve provided answers to some common questions many patients have about cataracts.
What Are Cataracts?
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens. Over time, proteins in the lens break down and clump together, causing vision to become blurry, dim, or distorted. Cataracts usually develop slowly and can affect one or both eyes.
What Causes Cataracts?
Aging is the most common cause of cataracts, but other factors include exposure to ultraviolet light, smoking, diabetes, certain medications, and eye injuries. Genetics and lifestyle choices can also play a role.
What Are the Symptoms of Cataracts?
Common symptoms include cloudy or fuzzy vision, difficulty seeing at night, sensitivity to glare, faded colors, and double vision in one eye. You might notice you need brighter light for reading or frequent changes in your eyeglass prescription.
Can Cataracts Be Prevented?
While cataracts cannot always be prevented, you can reduce your risk by wearing UV-protective sunglasses, maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding smoking, and managing chronic health conditions like diabetes.
How Are Cataracts Treated?
In the early stages, stronger glasses or brighter lighting may help improve your sight. When cataracts interfere with daily activities, surgery is the most effective treatment. The cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens, restoring vision.
Is Cataract Surgery Safe?
Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most common surgeries worldwide. It is usually quick, painless, and has a high success rate. Your eye doctor will explain the procedure and what to expect during recovery.
When Should I See a Doctor?
If you notice persistent changes in your vision or difficulty with daily tasks like reading or driving, schedule an eye exam. Early care helps preserve your sight and leads to the best possible outcome.
Contact Us for an Appointment Today
For cataract treatment, contact Eye Site in Katy and Houston, TX, at (281) 644-2010. We’re happy to answer your questions and help you book an appointment. You can also browse our website for more resources or stop by in person. We look forward to assisting you!