With almost 22 million Americans over the age 40 affected by cataracts and over half of all Americans over age 80 will have cataracts, no wonder why it’s the leading cause of worldwide vision loss. It is important to do all you can to avoid cataracts, the first step is to contact Lake Nona Eye Care for a comprehensive eye exam.
According to the National Eye Institute, “A cataract is a clouding of the lens in the eye that affects vision. Most cataracts are related to aging. Cataracts are very common in older people. By age 80, more than half of all Americans either have a cataract or have had cataract surgery. A cataract can occur in either or both eyes. It cannot spread from one eye to the other. Researchers suspect that there are several causes of cataract, such as smoking and diabetes. Or, it may be that the protein in the lens just changes from the wear and tear it takes over the years.”
The lens in our eye is mostly made up of protein and water, the protein what keeps our lenses clear. Sometimes the protein clumps together as we age or from certain diseases, these clumps can cloud certain areas of the eye lens. The clump usually grows larger over time, making it difficult to see. Because the changes happen slowly you may not notice changes in your vision, which is why it is important to have a regular comprehensive exam. The earlier you catch a cataract the better off you are.
Cataract Symptoms Include
Dim, blurred or cloudy vision
Sensitivity to glare and light
Difficulty seeing at night
Double vision only in one eye
Yellowing or fading of colors
Seeing ‘halos’ around lights
Changing your eyeglass or contact lenses prescription frequently
If you notice any change in your vision, it is important to contact Lake Nona Eye care.
Regardless of your physical well-being or your age, routine eye exams are vital to healthy eyes. Many eye diseases eye disease threaten more than just our vision, they can affect our overall wellbeing. During an eye exam Dr. Ward and the Team at Lake Nona Eye Care do much more than just establish your prescription for contact lenses or eye glasses. A compressive exam will include checking for eye diseases and other issues leading to vision loss.