What Are Cataracts?

If you have been diagnosed with cataracts, you may already be experiencing blurry vision as a result of this serious medical condition. Cataracts usually develop over time and cause the lens of one or both eyes to become cloudy or opaque. If left untreated, this condition can cause severe vision impairment that can have a significant impact on your daily activities. At Mattioli Vision Professionals, we offer comprehensive cataract surgery solutions for cataract patients to help you maintain your independence and your vision. Dr. Fred Mattioli is an established, board-certified Houston cataract surgeon with the skills and experience needed to resolve your cataract issues and restore your eyesight effectively.

Do I Have Cataracts?

Rather than an abnormal growth on the lens of the eye, cataracts are a condition that gradually turns your own lenses cloudy or opaque. Some of the early signs of cataracts include the following:

  • Halos or glowing outlines around lighted objects
  • Blurriness and cloudiness, especially at night
  • Yellowing of colors
  • Fuzzy areas in your field of vision
  • Increased sensitivity to light

Because cataracts are a progressive condition, they will continue to get worse if left untreated. Consulting with a specialist in Houston cataract Surgery can provide practical options for managing this condition and restoring your vision.

Take the Cataract Self Test

Common Symptoms of Cataracts: Know the Early Warning Signs

Because cataracts develop gradually, the early warning signs of this condition may go unnoticed. Understanding the symptoms of cataracts can help you to avoid issues when driving and performing other visual tasks. At Mattioli Vision Professionals, we are committed to providing top-quality eye care for patients with cataracts and other vision-impairing conditions. We are a leading Houston laser eye surgery provider with a proven reputation for outstanding results. Here are five of the most common symptoms to watch for if you suspect that you may have cataracts.

Cloudy Vision

If the world gradually begins to look a little darker, it may not be the weather or your mood. Many patients with cataracts report blurring and cloudiness that becomes worse over time. Cataracts can also cause objects to appear yellowed or dim, especially in low light.

Double Vision in a Single Eye

Most cases of double vision involve a mismatch between the focus of two eyes. If you are experiencing double vision in just one eye, however, you should consult with a Houston eye surgeon to determine the cause of this issue. Double vision in a single eye can be a symptom of a number of different conditions, including the following:

  • Keratoconus, a progressive condition that results in changes to the shape of your cornea
  • Infections of the eye
  • Cataracts
  • Injuries and scarring to eye tissues

When cataracts are the culprit, opaque patches on the lens are usually to blame. In many cases, scheduling an appointment with a physician who specializes in Houston cataract surgery can provide increased information on the treatment options available to you in the modern medical marketplace.

Increased Sensitivity to Bright Lights

Many patients with cataracts report an increased sensitivity to bright lights and to glare reflecting off bright surfaces and other materials. Sometimes light sensitivity or halos can be early warning signs of cataracts. By reporting these symptoms promptly to your eye care professional, you may be able to address cataract issues more quickly.

Reduced Ability to See at Night

Cataracts can also block light from entering the eye through the lens. This can make it difficult to see at night and can limit the ability of cataract patients to drive during the evening, night and early morning hours. This can have a significant impact on personal independence and mobility and could limit the entertainment and work options available to some individuals.

What Causes Cataracts?

Most cases of cataracts are the result of aging or injuries to the eyes. Other risk factors include diabetes, excessive use of alcohol, smoking and the use of steroids over a prolonged period of time. Too much time spent in the sun can also increase your risk of developing cataracts later in life.

Frequent Changes in Eyeglass Prescriptions

If you are experiencing a rapid decline in the quality of your vision that requires frequent changes in the strength of your contact lens or eyeglass prescription, it may be worthwhile to undergo testing for cataracts. This condition can cause increasing blurriness and reduced visual acuity.

At Mattioli Vision Professionals, we offer cataract eye surgery solutions that include cataract surgery, LASIK procedures and other vision correction options. If you think you may have cataracts, give us a call to discuss your eye care needs with one of our healthcare professionals. We look forward to hearing from you.

What Tests Are Used to Diagnose Cataracts?

Depending on the severity of the condition, your physician may perform a visual acuity test that measures your ability to read letters at a distance. Your doctor may also examine your eyes using a special lighting system that provides a clear view of the structures and general health of your eyes. In some cases, your eyes may be dilated to allow an even better look at these internal structures.

Treatments for Cataracts

The experts at Mattioli Vision Professionals can provide you with practical options to restore your vision. Our Houston cataract surgery team uses modern equipment and proven techniques to remove cataracts safely and to implant intraocular lenses, allowing you to see clearly and to enjoy the best possible results after your surgery. In some cases, existing eye conditions may not allow for the use of intraocular lenses. Glasses and contacts may be recommended for patients in these cases.

As a leader in LASIK eye surgery, Mattioli Vision Professionals offers comprehensive help for patients with cataracts and other conditions that can impair vision. We can deliver practical solutions to help you see more clearly and to ensure that you look your best. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to the opportunity to serve your eye care needs.

Cataract Self-Evaluation

Cataracts FAQ

Since age is the greatest risk for developing cataracts, this condition typically occurs in older adults. Cataracts that are due to aging can occur as early as 40 – 50 years old. If you suspect you are experiencing symptoms of cataracts, it is important to seek treatment as early as possible.

Cataracts should be treated when they start to affect your vision. This can mean blurry vision, which can make it difficult to perform your daily routine. In these cases, cataracts will need to be treated in order to prevent further damage.

The only real way to get rid of cataracts is to properly treat them and have them removed. Cataracts will not completely go away on their own. This is why you should seek care from an eye care professional at the onset of symptoms.

The content on this page has either authored or reviewed by Dr. Fred Mattioli.

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