The lens of your eye is a transparent structure that is responsible for focusing light to the back of the retina. Cataracts occur when proteins build up in the lens, causing it to become clouded. The clouded lens prevents light from passing clearly through the lens, resulting in blurriness or loss of vision. This condition usually develops slowly and is barely noticeable until the lens blocks a significant amount of light.

Some of the most common symptoms of cataracts include:

·         Filmy, foggy, blurry, or cloudy vision.

·         Nearsightedness that tends to get worse over time.

·         Difficulty driving at night, especially due to the glare from incoming headlights.

·         Double vision.

·         Frequent and sudden changes in eyeglass prescription.

·         Problems with glare during the day.

·         Changes in the way color is perceived due to the discolored lens.

Cataracts commonly develop as a result of the aging process, but can also develop by other means. Congenital cataracts occur when a child is born with clouded lenses as a result of infection, poor development, or injury. Secondary cataracts develop as a result of other medical conditions such as diabetes or from exposure to certain chemicals or medications. Traumatic cataracts form after an injury to the eyes.

When the clouded lens causes vision loss that significantly impacts the life of a patient, surgical treatment of this condition is a safe and effective option. Cataract surgery entails the removal of the clouded lens and its replacement with a new, artificial lens. More than 2 million cataract surgeries are performed in the United States every year and improve the visual acuity of many patients.

More than 50% of all Americans over the age of 65 suffer from cataracts. If you are experiencing difficulties with your vision as a result of clouded lenses, schedule a consultation with the experts at YESnick Vision Center by contacting our staff at (702) 966-2020—we will be happy to assist you.