Are those "Cadillacs" ripe yet?

Cataracts, not Cadillacs, are a natural part of aging (unfortunately like gray hair and wrinkles). The lens inside the eye (located behind the pupil) is an important part of our focusing ability. Gradually, it becomes thicker each year as we get older. With time, this thickness causes the lens to become less flexible requiring eyeglasses for reading (usually by our 40s).




Later, the thickness causes it to become cloudier, making the vision blurrier (usually in our 60s and 70s). Glare or haloes around lights at night may be the first symptom noticed. Sometimes, there may be no symptoms noted by you, but your eye doctor may observe cataracts during your eye examination.

If your optometrist has told you that you have cataracts, sometimes prescribing eyeglasses or making a small change in your current eyeglass prescription will be all that is needed to improve any blur you may have noted. He or she may also recommend adding an antireflective coating to your lenses to improve any glare at night. Patients can have cataracts for many years without any complications or affect on his or her daily lifestyle. Wearing sunglasses, especially here in Florida, can also protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays. Ultraviolet exposure can cause cataracts to form sooner.

Once it has been determined that eyeglasses can no longer improve your clarity of vision, a consult with a cataract surgeon may be recommended. Cataract surgery is a very common procedure today. Please, never feel pressured into eye surgery. All options should be fully discussed with you during your visit.

-Dr. Heather Trapheagen
Full Spectrum Family Vision Care