Prevent Blindness America declared June as Cataract Awareness Month. A cataract is a clouding of the eye lens that can cause vision to become blurry or dim. Generally, a cataract does not cause pain, redness or tears. This common eye disease affects millions of people but is easily treatable and can be corrected with a fast, minor and virtually pain-free surgical procedure. Did you know…
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Cataracts are a natural result of aging. Cataracts can take years to develop and the majority of diagnosed cases are a result of age. The lens of the eye naturally becomes less flexible and less transparent as we age. As a result, the longer you live, the more likely you are to develop cataracts.
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Age is not the only risk factor for cataracts. Aside from aging, certain hereditary and physical traits, along with certain lifestyle habits, can contribute to the development of cataracts. Here are a few risk factors that can increase your chance of developing a cataract:
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Most cataract cases in the United States are in older adults, but children may also develop pediatric cataracts. Without treatment, cataracts in young children can lead to vision impairment. Diagnosing and treating cataracts early in children is critical to promoting normal vision development.
These symptoms can be a sign of other eye problems, too. Be sure to talk to your eye doctor if you have any of these problems.
As with most eye conditions, early intervention is key. A
comprehensive eye exam is the best way to detect the development of cataracts. Contact The Eye Institute (TEI) to make an appointment at one of our
practice locations.