Cataracts, often linked to aging, can develop at any age, affecting vision as the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy. Factors like injury, disease, radiation, certain medications, congenital conditions and lifestyle choices such as smoking and obesity can all lead to cataract formation earlier in life. For newborns with congenital cataracts, prompt treatment is crucial to prevent vision loss and ensure proper eye development. Traumatic cataracts, resulting from injury or illness, can take anywhere from days to years to manifest. Age-related cataracts typically progress slowly over several years, but all types ultimately require surgical removal.
While cataracts can develop at any age, the ideal time for cataract surgery is typically when the cataract significantly affects your vision and daily life. Most people opt for surgery between the ages of 60 and 70 because cataracts often become more pronounced during this period. However, the best time for surgery varies depending on individual circumstances, and your eye care provider can help you decide when the timing is right.
If you’ve been diagnosed with cataracts, you’re in good company—over 24 million Americans aged 40 and older face the same condition. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends several steps to manage cataracts after diagnosis. These include continuing with yearly eye exams to monitor the cataract’s progression, protecting your eyes from UV light by wearing sunglasses that block at least 99% of UV rays, quitting smoking, updating your prescription glasses or contacts as needed, using brighter lights for reading, limiting night driving if halos or glare are a problem, managing related health conditions like diabetes and gathering information about cataract surgery from your eye care provider. For more details on preparing for cataract surgery, you can visit our website at WEBSITE.
Surgery is the only way to remove cataracts. In the early stages, your eye doctor may suggest simple strategies to help you manage your symptoms. However, once cataracts start to seriously interfere with your daily activities, it’s time to consider surgery. During cataract surgery, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an artificial one, restoring and often improving your vision.
Don’t let cataracts compromise your quality of life. At Eye Institute of South Jersey, P.C., we’re committed to providing top-notch care and ensuring you achieve your best possible vision. If you’re experiencing symptoms that could be related to cataracts, don’t wait—schedule a comprehensive eye exam with us today by calling 856-205-1100. Let’s work together to protect and improve your vision for the future.