Most people over the age of 40 who suffer vision loss will develop cataracts. Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide. The number of cases of cataracts far eclipses the number of cases of glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy combined!

There are three types of cataracts:

  • Subcapsular Cataracts: Occurring at the back of the lens. These are most common in people who have diabetes or are regularly taking high doses of steroid medications.
  • Nuclear Cataracts: Formed deep in the nucleus of the lens. This type of cataract is generally associated with aging.
  • Cortical Cataracts: These tend to occur in the lens cortex, a part of the lens that encompasses the central nucleus. This type of cataract is generally known for its opaque wedge shapes, which begin forming in the lens’s periphery and gradually move toward the center.

According to Prevent Blindness America (PBA), more than 30 million Americans age 40 and older are suffering from cataracts of some form.

Cataracts Warning Signs

To put it simply, cataracts are when your eye’s natural lens begins to cloud. Here are some early warning signs be on the lookout for:

  • Vision beginning to blur slightly
  • Light sensitivity
  • Increasing levels of glare from oncoming headlights when driving at night
  • Colors appear to be dull
  • Seeing “halos” around light sources
  • Double vision in one of your eyes

Depending on the type of cataract, you might not experience any symptoms or in some rare cases your near vision can actually improve temporarily. It is important to remember that cataracts generally develop slowly and won’t dramatically affect your vision early on.

If you believe you are beginning to develop a cataract, make sure to set up an appointment immediately so we can be sure, and begin planning your treatment.