National Cataract Awareness Month

August

What is a Cataract?

A cataract is a blur of the lens in the eye. This part of the eye focuses on light and creates a clear picture. The lens is inside of a bag and over time cells die in the lens which causes them to be trapped in the bag causing blurriness. This usually happens as most individual’s age. However, this can also happen as a result of eye injuries, disease, and medication.

How do I know if I have a Cataract or just need a Stronger Prescription?

The best way to know what your eyes need is to get routine eye check-ups. Most seniors believe they need a strong prescription when their eye sight gets worse and objects become fuzzy.  However, it more likely to be cataracts which is one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults 55 and older.  More than 50% of individuals 65 and older have cataracts.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Cataracts?

Symptoms of cataracts can include blurred vision, ghost images, double vision, and the feeling of a layer over the eyes. Other signs of cataracts are dim light or constant prescription changes in contacts or glasses. Some individuals may be able to see the cataract. The cataracts may appear as a light yellow or white spot in the pupil.

How do you get rid of a Cataract?

If diagnosed early specific glasses may lessen symptoms. However, at certain stages surgery may be necessary to correct the problem. This surgery is very safe and is frequently performed as an outpatient procedure. Eye Care America states that more than 90% of patients who have the surgery recover functional vision.

**If you have questions about cataracts and your eyes or want to know more information please call 773-702-0660 to make an appointment at Friend Family Health Center.**