As we age, these changes occurring to the natural crystalline lens can lead to the development of cataracts, or a loss in clarity of the lens. Since the lens is no longer as flexible or as clear as it used to be, the eye can't focus light properly.
What Causes Cataracts?
While cataracts can occur as a result of other eye diseases, they mostly develop naturally with age. In fact, by age 65, many of us will develop a cataract.
There are other, less common causes of cataracts as well, including heredity, birth defects, chronic diseases such as diabetes, excessive use of steroid medications, and certain eye injuries.
Symptoms of Cataracts
At first, symptoms may be undetectable or very slight. However, any noticeable change in vision may be cause for concern, and should be brought to the attention of an eye care professional. Common symptoms of cataracts include:
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Cloudy or blurred vision
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Sensitivity to light and glare
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Frequent prescription changes for glasses or contact lenses
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Poor night vision
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Color vision changes and dimming
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Double vision in a single eye
Treatment for Cataracts
While there is no way to prevent cataracts, there are things you can do to slow their formation. Modifiable factors that increase the risk of cataract include smoking, high blood pressure, obesity, and excessive alcohol intake. You may also slow the formation of cataracts by protecting your eyes from direct sunlight.
In the beginning stages of cataracts, vision may be slightly improved using forms of visual correction. However, in the later stages, surgery is required. Fortunately, surgery has proven to be extremely successful in the removal of cataracts. During cataract surgery, your physician will replace your natural lens with an IOL.
There are three standard forms of surgery for cataracts – a standard monofocal intraocular lens (IOL), a multifocal intraocular lens (IOL) or an accommodating lens:
A standard monofocal IOL is a fixed lens (it doesn't move) that is designed to deliver improved vision at one distance (usually far). The potential drawback is that after surgery, you may need to wear glasses for near and intermediate vision, even if you didn't wear glasses before surgery.
A multifocal lens uses multiple visual zones that are built into the lens to provide vision at various distances. It's almost like the rings of a target, with some rings being dedicated to distance vision, while others are used for near vision, similar to having a bifocal or trifocal lens inside the eye. A multifocal IOL projects multiple images, requiring your brain to adjust to the differences. Some patients have difficulty adjusting to seeing this way. Additionally, intermediate vision (at arms length) may be compromised because the technology is designed mainly for near and distance vision, at the exclusion of intermediate vision. With multifocal IOLs, patients can have potential issues of glare and halos especially when driving at night.