Cataracts Diagnosis and Treatment in Central PA

For most people, cataracts are a natural part of the aging process and begin to develop after the age of 40, which is the general age when the proteins of the lens can start to degrade and/or clump together. Cataracts develop when the natural lens of the eye becomes clouded, which leads to reduced vision and sometimes blindness, if not diagnosed and treated correctly. This cloudiness gradually worsens and blocks light from hitting the retina properly. Cataracts can develop very slowly so those in the early stages may not even be aware of their development.

Our team of board-certified ophthalmologists at The Eye Center of Central PA is experienced in diagnosing and treating cataracts. Contact us today, to learn about your options for treating cataracts.

Often, the first sign of cataracts is progressively decreased vision that isn’t improved with a person’s eyeglasses or contact lens prescription. Many patients also notice they require brighter light in order to read. Other symptoms may include reduced night vision, seeing more glares or halos, and seeing with an overall yellowish tint. Cataracts don’t cause pain, and they can exist for quite a while before they produce any visual symptoms. In the majority of people, the cataracts begin to develop somewhere between the ages of 40 – 50; however, many patients don’t notice cataract symptoms until they are further developed, often in their 60s and 70s.

A cataract is caused by the normal aging process and the natural breaking down of the proteins within the eye's lens. This breakdown occurs in all people, but there are other lifestyle and medical factors that can speed up the process. These can include behavioral habits, such as using tobacco products, as well as some medical conditions, like diabetes and hypertension. Prolonged exposure to UV rays has also been attributed to the development of cataracts. Other factors that can impact cataract development include:

• Certain medications, such as steroids
• Certain kinds of eye surgery
• Degenerative myopia
• Eye trauma

Cataracts are easily diagnosed during a comprehensive, dilated medical eye exam. During the exam, the provider will look for changes to the natural lens to determine cataract development. However, since cataracts often develop slowly, a patient may be diagnosed and not require treatment for several years.

Once cataract treatment is recommended, and changes in glasses or contact lens prescriptions are no longer sufficient, patients are referred to one of our board certified ophthalmologists for a comprehensive cataract evaluation.

The ophthalmologist will perform a dilated medical eye exam to measure the cataracts and check the overall health of the eye. Cataracts are measured by density and can be considered mild, moderate or severe.

For most people cataracts are often found in both eyes and are typically similar in density, since they develop over time with age. However, cataracts can also be caused by trauma to the eye or after other eye surgeries. In these unique cases, a cataract may develop quickly in one eye and need to be surgically treated long before the other cataract requires treatment.

In the beginning stages of cataract development, a majority of patients simply need new prescription lenses glasses or contact lenses. Those with more advanced cataracts generally require cataract surgery. Our experienced team is devoted to providing each one of our patients with the best possible care and treatment options.

If you have experienced any of these symptoms mentioned or haven’t received a comprehensive eye exam in the last two years, please call to schedule an appointment with one of our knowledgeable providers. Particularly for those over the age of 40, receiving annual comprehensive eye exams is integral to diagnosing and treating cataracts, as well as other eye conditions.