Cataracts

The lens of the eye is normally clear, but for those with cataracts, the lens becomes cloudy. This can make it look like everything is being seen through a fog. If you haven't had your annual eye exam yet, or you are worried that you may have cataracts, it's time to call Palmetto Eye in Rock Hill, SC, to schedule an appointment with one of our eye doctors.

The Formation of a Cataract

When a person has cataracts, it can be difficult to recognize faces, drive a car, see at night, and even read. The average cataract begins very small and has little to no effect on your vision. As a cataract gets worse, eyeglasses may be able to help the patient to see more clearly. However, cataracts tend to keep getting worse over time and will eventually cloud over your vision as the lens becomes more cloudy. When it reaches that state, eyeglasses or contacts can no longer help with the way everything looks foggy. Eventually, it will interfere with your normal tasks, and that is when you may need to have surgery for the condition. Cataract surgery is considered safe and effective.

Symptoms of Cataracts

In addition to the cloudy vision that is the hallmark of cataracts, a cataract can also cause several other symptoms. Vision can become blurry or dim. Patients often lose their ability to see much at night. There may be an increased sensitivity to glare and light. Patients often need to have brighter lights to read and do other normal activities. Lights may begin to have halos around them. Colors may seem more yellow or faded. Patients may have double vision in only one of their eyes. The frequent need to change the prescription of your glasses or contacts is also a sign of cataracts.

Causes of Cataracts

One of the most common causes of cataracts is aging. As we get older, the lens of the eye gets firmer, thicker, and less transparent. The tissues inside of the lens may begin to clump together as they break down, preventing the incoming images from looking sharp. As this continues, your vision becomes more blurry.

Schedule Your Annual Eye Exam in Rock Hill, SC

Even if you do not wear glasses or contact lenses, you need an annual eye exam to look for conditions like cataracts. Call Palmetto Eye today at (803) 985-2020 to schedule an appointment with one of our optometrists.