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    Jun 02
    Blog: Cataracts

    The lens of the eye harnesses light to produce clear, sharp images, and it becomes less flexible as you get older. The tissue breaks down and clumps together, which causes cloudiness. That cloudiness, called a cataract, is incredibly common—more than half of all Americans age 80 and older either have cataracts, or have had surgery to remove them.

    Cataracts often develop very slowly, so some patients are not even aware they're experiencing any loss in vision. Over time, however, symptoms will become more overt and may include:

    • Vision that is cloudy, blurry, or filmy.
    • Glare or light sensitivity.
    • Frequent changes in vision prescription.
    • Double vision in one eye.
    • Need for a brighter light to read, cook, or complete other daily activities.
    • Poor night vision.
    • Slight change in color perception.

    While they do tend to present in older patients, certain preexisting conditions may make you more susceptible to cataracts as a younger age, including diabetes, smoking, sun exposure, long-term use of steroids, or some other type of eye surgery. As a result, the best preventative strategies are actually quite simple: monitor and address any preexisting conditions, wear sunglasses, and maintain a healthy diet.

    But most importantly, don't miss your annual eye exam. In the early stages, your provider can manage cataracts with regular observation and updated prescriptions before exploring other treatment options.

    The providers at Saratoga Hospital Medical Group - Eye Care offer routine, comprehensive exams for patients of all ages to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions. If you're overdue for an exam, or you've started to notice changes in your vision, please make an appointment right away. You may call the office directly at 518-587-8400.