As you age, you’re more prone to develop eye conditions like cataracts. Cataracts can hinder your visual clarity due to clouding of the lens of your eye. An eye checkup from Spectrum Eye Physicians can determine if you have cataracts and to what extent cataracts are affecting your vision. The following FAQs from your San Jose, Cupertino, Los Gatos, and Santa Cruz eye doctor explain more about cataract causes, symptoms and treatment.

A cataract is an age-related eye condition that affects the lens of your eye. Over time, the lens becomes opaque due to protein buildup, leaving you with blurry vision. Cataracts are a natural part of the aging process. Although they cannot be prevented, cataracts can be treated via cataract surgery.

Your San Jose/Cupertino/Los Gatos/Santa Cruz eye doctor can test you for cataracts during an eye exam. As the condition progresses, you’ll also begin to experience problems with your vision.  

In the beginning stages, you may have no symptoms nor will cataracts affect your vision. As cataracts grow, they’ll begin to cover more of your lens, clouding your vision. Your vision may gradually grow dull and blurry. Colors may fade and you may become more sensitive to light, especially at night. You may see “halos” around lights or experience double vision. You may need to change your prescription more often to see clearly.

This means the cataracts are covering your entire lens, making it extremely difficult to see clearly. At this stage, you’ll need cataract surgery to correct your vision. Surgery is generally recommended when cataracts keep you from performing everyday tasks such as reading, driving, or watching TV.

As cataracts develop slowly over the years, they’re found more often in seniors. Certain habits like drinking, smoking, and overexposure to UV rays of the sun can put you at greater risk of developing cataracts.

Yes. Left untreated, cataracts can eventually lead to blindness. That’s why it’s important to get regular eye care services to diagnose this condition. 

Technological advances in this surgical procedure have made it easy for almost anyone to benefit from cataract surgery, regardless of their age. Talk to your optometry specialist from Spectrum Eye Physicians about your condition.

Contact Spectrum Eye Physicians Today!

Schedule your appointment online or call us at 408-884-2215. No matter which of our locations you visit, you will receive the latest in eye care technology from friendly eye doctors and staff committed to serving you.

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