FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS – CATARACTS

A cataract is when the natural lens inside the eye becomes cloudy or opaque, resulting in the reduction of visual ability. In nearly all cases, the only treatment for this condition is surgery, which can be performed at Horizon Eye Specialists. We have offices located in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Glendale, Goodyear and more.

In this section we will be dealing with a number of frequently asked questions that are related to cataracts and their cure.

1. What does the term “cataract” refers to?
   A cataract is when the natural lens, which is positioned behind the iris/pupil, becomes cloudy or opaque, almost like frosted glass. It prohibits a person from seeing as clearly as a person without a cataract.
   
   
2. How does a cataract develop in the lens?
   In most cases, cataracts develop due to certain age related factors. The onset of aging in the human body causes the proteins within the lens to clump together, thereby clouding the lens and reducing the sharpness of images reaching the retina. Aging also causes the lens of the eye to change from clear to yellow or brownish in color, which in turn can also result in reduced vision.
   
   
3. Does a cataract only effect elderly people?
   About 95% of cataract cases are seen in people above the age of 65 years. However, you can develop cataracts at any age secondary to metabolic conditions, trauma, certain medications, etc. For example, children can be born with congenital cataracts if their mother contracted certain infectious diseases, such as chicken pox, or German measles, during the course of pregnancy.
   
   
4. What are the symptoms of a cataract and how is it detected?
   The most common symptoms of a cataract are:
   • Vision appears to be cloudy and blurred
   • Colors may appear dull
   • Appearance of a glare, particularly from sunlight or car headlights
   • Appearance of a halo around light sources
     
     
5. How are cataracts treated?
   Surgery is the only option for a visually significant cataract. However, some patients have only mild cataracts which are not bothersome or visually significant yet. In those cases, a simple change in the glasses prescription, new glasses with anti-glare lenses, or monitoring may be indicated. If, or when, cataract surgery is needed, it is routinely performed at Horizon Eye Specialists.
   
   
6. How effective is the surgery and how long will its effects last?
   When performed properly, cataract surgery can be completely effective and its results can last for the rest of your life. At Horizon Eye Specialists, cataract surgery is performed by eye surgeons who are highly experienced in the field of ophthalmology and its related surgery.
   
   
7. How long does it take to return to normal activities after surgery?
   Today’s advanced surgical techniques allow the patient to return to their normal lifestyle almost immediately, in most cases. There will be some minor physical restrictions during the first week or so, but most patients can resume light activity, including returning to work, within a few days. However for complete visual recovery, it may be a month or longer before the patient has finished their medicated eye drops and obtained new glasses, if any are needed.