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Cataract
What is a Cataract?
Ordinarily the lens of your eye is clear, but sometimes some or all
of it becomes cloudy, causing your vision to blur or be impaired. This common
occurrence is called a cataract.
Causes and Risk Factors
A chemical change causes a cataract, but precisely what precipitates
this change is unknown. Age, family history, injury, or disease may play a
part. Cataracts can be found in anyone, but risk is increased by the following
factors:
- Age over 55
- Smoking cigarettes
- Some medications
- Overexposure to the ultraviolet radiation found in sunlight
Symptoms
Pain is not a sign of cataracts. The following symptoms may instead
occur:
- Vision becomes blurry
- Sensation of film over eyes
- Spots in front of eyes
- Enhanced near vision (temporary)
- Escalated sensitivity to glare
Diagnosis and Treatment
A cataract can be diagnosed by your optometrist. No confirmed
preventative treatment exists today, however different measures can counteract
cataracts after they have formed. As your optometrist monitors the condition,
he or she will adjust your glasses prescription to give you the best possible
vision. Surgery in which your eye's lens is replaced by an artificial lens is
an option when the cataract begins to interfere with your life. This can vastly
improve your vision.
How Can I Save Money on Vision Care?
Proper vision care is vital for both adults and
children, yet it is often overlooked because of the cost. You may be able to save a substantial amount of money through an insurance program, such as the vision plans offered through HumanaOne.
