Cataracts are most known for affecting older people. Especially in patients over 40, cataracts are part of the natural aging process.
But cataracts can come from different causes. Keep reading to learn more about other ways you can develop cataracts!
Traditional Cataracts
Traditional cataracts occur because of aging. When the proteins inside of your lens begin to break down, they clump together.
As these clumps of protein begin to grow, they become big enough to block light or distort it.
There are several different symptoms that come along with cataracts. These can include:
- blurry or hazy vision
- faded colors
- a yellowish tint to your eyesight
- glare
- light sensitivity
- double vision
Radiation Cataracts
Sometimes exposure to radiation can cause cataracts to develop. This includes gamma radiation, but more often refers to ultraviolet radiation.
The sun is a major source of UV radiation. Want to avoid developing radiation cataracts? Wear sunglasses with UV radiation protection and a wide-brimmed hat when you’re outside. These are two easy ways to stay protected from the sun’s radiation.
Traumatic Cataracts
Cataracts can form as a response to severe eye injuries, especially that form on the lens of the eye. Blunt or penetrating objects that pierce or harm the lens can disrupt the fibers inside of the lens.
Secondary Cataracts
Sometimes eye surgery can cause cataracts. This even includes cataract surgery, strange as it may sound.
This does not mean cataracts “grow back”. During cataract surgery, the lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens.
A secondary cataract forms in the membrane that holds the lens. If you have a secondary cataract, you need a procedure called a YAG laser capsulotomy.
This procedure is very simple and just as safe as cataract surgery. During the procedure, your surgeon pokes a small hole through the membrane.
This way, it can still hold the lens in place while allowing light to pass through it.
Congenital Cataracts
Even infants are not safe from cataracts. Congenital cataracts are often a hereditary trait. They can be part of a larger underlying issue such as congenital rubella syndrome. Sometimes they stem from an unknown source.
Congenital cataracts are often small enough to not impede vision. They can be large enough that not removing them can lead to further vision problems for the child.
Congenital cataracts are usually removed while the baby is only a few weeks old.
Schedule a cataract screening if you think you have a cataract
Cataracts, no matter the kind, need a proper diagnosis from a trained eye doctor. If you think you have a cataract, it’s important to schedule a cataract screening.
During this screening, you’ll undergo a series of tests. These tests help determine if you have cataracts. Even if you have a cataract, it doesn’t always mean it needs immediate removal.
Your eye doctor will go over their recommendations for removal during your screening. This is a good time to ask any questions you may have about the procedure and what to expect.
Do you think you may have cataracts? Schedule your cataract screening at Takle Eye Group in Griffin, GA today! Don’t let your distorted vision stand in your way of clearer vision any longer!
