Like a camera lens, your eye lens bends light to focus it on the retina to create a sharp image. The lens is composed of water and protein. In general, a cataract is caused by the aging process. As we age, the protein in the lens can clump together, creating a cloudy area that prevents light from being focused on the retina, thereby causing blurry vision. The cloudy area continues to grow and will obstruct a greater area of your vision as it progresses. You may notice a gradual area of cloudy vision as well as other cataract symptoms.
There are a number of risk factors which may make you more likely to develop cataracts. These risk factors include:
- Inherited genetic factors
- Certain medical conditions, including diabetes
- A past eye injury
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- Obesity
- Excessive alcohol use
- Ongoing and excessive exposure to sunlight without eye protection
With cataract surgery, our experienced eye surgeons can restore your vision by replacing the cloudy eye lens.
For diagnosis and treatment of cataracts in Kansas City, please contact Silverstein Eye Centers to schedule a consultation.