Cataract Center
Cataracts develop due to a protein buildup on the lens, leading to its cloudiness. This clouding blocks and distorts the passage of light, resulting in diminished vision. While the exact cause of the protein buildup remains unknown, our team at Westlake Eye Specialists, along with our esteemed Austin Cataract Surgeons, are dedicated to offering comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment options.
Types of
Cataracts
Age-Related Cataracts, as the name suggests, develops as a result of aging and is the most common form of Cataracts. Seventy percent of individuals over 75 years of age have Age-Related Cataracts.
Congenital Cataracts are sometimes found in babies as a result of an infection they had before prior to birth. Congenital Cataracts can also develop in young children.
Some Cataracts may develop as a result of other diseases, like diabetes, or long-term exposure to toxic substances, certain medications (such as corticosteroids or diuretics), ultraviolet light, and radiation. Traumatic cataracts may form after an injury to the eye.
Some risk factors for Cataracts include:
- Cigarette smoking
- Medications such as corticosteroids
- Eye injuries
- Sun exposure
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Over the age of 65
Cataracts often form slowly and cause few symptoms. When symptoms are present, they can include:
- Vision that is cloudy, blurry, foggy or filmy
- Sudden nearsightedness
- Changes in the way colors are seen, particularly the color yellow
- Problems driving at night because oncoming headlights are distracting
- Problems with glare
- Double vision
- Sudden temporary improvement in close-up vision
