A cataract is a clouding of the lens in the eye that affects vision. Most cataracts are related to aging. Cataracts typically progress slowly to cause vision loss, and are potentially blinding if untreated. The condition usually affects both eyes, but almost always one eye is affected earlier than the other.

Cataracts are the most common cause of vision loss in people over age 40 and are the principal cause of blindness in the world. In the United States, age-related cataracts have been reported in 42 percent of those between the ages of 52 and 64, 60 percent of those between the ages 65 and 74, and 91 percent of those between the ages of 75 and 85.

Cataracts develop for a variety of reasons, including long-term exposure to ultraviolet light, exposure to radiation, secondary effects of diseases such as diabetes, or trauma. Some drugs, such as steroids can induce cataract development. Genetic factors are often a cause of congenital cataracts, and positive family history may also play a role in predisposing someone to cataracts at an earlier age. The risk of cataract increases as you get older. Other risk factors include smoking and alcohol use.

When a cataract is small you may not notice any changes in your vision. Cataracts tend to "grow" slowly, so vision gets worse gradually. Over time, as a cataract becomes more opaque, seeing may become more difficult. Your vision may get cloudy or blurrier and colors may seem faded. Other symptoms include glare, poor night vision and double vision in one eye.

Although cataracts have no scientifically proven prevention, wearing ultraviolet protecting sunglasses and a hat with a brim may help to delay cataracts. Researchers also believe good nutrition can help reduce the risk of age-related cataract. They recommend eating green leafy vegetables, fruit, and other foods with antioxidants. If you smoke, stop. If you are age 60 or older, you should have a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once every two years.

The symptoms of early cataract may be improved with new eyeglasses, brighter lighting, anti-glare sunglasses, or magnifying lenses. But if impaired vision interferes with your usual activities, you might need cataract surgery. Fortunately, cataract surgery is generally a safe, effective procedure. Cataract surgery is usually conducted on an outpatient basis and is very successful in restoring vision. Surgery involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial lens. If you have cataracts in both eyes that require surgery, the surgery will be performed on each eye at separate times, usually four to eight weeks apart. Cataract removal is one of the most common operations performed in the United States. It also is one of the safest and most effective types of surgery. In about 90 percent of cases, people who have cataract surgery have better vision afterward.

Make an appointment for an eye exam if you notice any changes in your vision. Because cataracts and other conditions such as glaucoma are common in older adults, it's important to have your eyes examined on a regular basis.

Dr. Melanie Reese is an Optometrist in private practice in Sunrise, FL. Please forward any comments or questions to reesevisioncare@gmail.com.