Cataracts can significantly impact your vision and make tasks like driving or reading difficult. Not only that, if not treated on time, they can lead to vision loss. At SouthWest Eye Care in Bakersfield, CA, we offer comprehensive eye exam to diagnose cataracts and provide the necessary treatment to help you see clearly. Before scheduling your appointment with us, learn more about cataracts and why treatment is important below:
What Causes Cataracts?
Cataracts often develop due to aging. Over time, the protein cells in your eye lens can stick together, forming a layer known as a cataract. As a result, the cloudiness block light from entering the retina, which leads to hazy vision.
What Are the Symptoms of Cataracts?
Cataracts often develop slowly over many years. In the early stages, you might experience some symptoms or no signs at all. As cataracts progress, they can gradually affect your eyesight. Some symptoms of cataracts include:
- Blurry or hazy vision
- Feeling like there's a blurry film over your eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- Seeing halos around lights
- Difficulty distinguishing colors and seeing clearly at night
What are Some Risks of Cataracts?
Various factors that increase your risk for cataracts. Some of these factors include the following:
Environmental risks
Environmental factors can contribute to cataracts. These factors can be substances that we breathe, consume, and can pose a danger they can increase the presence of radicals in our bodies. Free radicals are chemicals that have the potential to harm cells. In the case of cataracts, they can cause damage to the cells in the lens of the eye.
Medical Factors
Certain medical conditions and procedures can increase the chances of cataracts. Some medical factors include:
- Diabetes or high blood sugar levels
- Previous eye surgery, such as glaucoma surgery
- Using corticosteroids to treat disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis
- Eye problems like retina pigmentosa or uveitis
Genetic Factors
Genetic factors also increase the risk of cataracts. If you have a family history of cataracts or were born with cataracts, your chances of developing cataracts may be higher. It’s important to share your family history with our optometrists so we can learn more about your eye health and condition.
Contact us for an Appointment Today
If you are experiencing any symptoms of cataracts, our team at SouthWest Eye Care in Bakersfield, CA, is happy to help. After evaluating your condition, we can develop a customized treatment plan that will reduce your symptoms and preserve your vision. To schedule your appointment, call us at (661) 833-4040 today.