Cataracts

Here at Evergreen Eye Care in Vancouver, WA we understand how hard it can be to deal with deteriorating sight due to cataracts and other eye conditions. A cataract is when the natural lens of the eye begins to cloud, which causes vision to deteriorate. We believe that it is important that all of our patients understand their diagnosis and potential treatment methods that we prescribe so that they can be better prepared for facing the problem. We have thousands of successful cataract treatments to our name and want all of our patients to feel the kind of confidence about their treatment that we feel!

What are cataracts?

As described above, cataracts are a common issue where the natural lens of the eye, which is behind the iris and the pupil, begins to cloud and deteriorate vision. Cataracts are very common and are the lead cause of vision loss in patients over the age of 40. They are the leading cause of blindness in the world! Cataracts are so common that they are more prevalent than macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma combined according to Prevent Blindness America (PBA).

In the US, cataracts are expected to affect more than 30 million people by the year 2020 according to the PBA.

Different Kinds of Cataracts

There are a few different varieties of cataracts, each that affect sight differently. Each kind of cataract occurs and must be treated differently.

Subcapsular Cataracts

Subcapsular cataracts occur at the back of the lens. This variety of cataract occurs most frequently in people who have diabetes and must take high doses of steroids.

Nuclear Cataracts

Nuclear cataracts form in the central zone or the nucleus of the lens. Nuclear cataracts are usually linked to advanced aging.

Cortical Cataract

Cortical cataracts are the most noticeable variety of cataract because they are accompanied by a white, wedge-shaped opacity at the peripheral portions of the lens. These opacities reach into the center of the lens the way the spokes of a bike go from the outside of the wheel to the inner portion.

Cataract Symptoms and Signs

If you notice your vision beginning to blur, you might have a cataract. Lights or the sun may appear too bright or have a glare to them that is distracting or obtrusive. Night driving with cataracts can be quite difficult and even scary because of the halo or glare that can occur in your vision. The contrast between light and dark can become overwhelming when you have cataracts.

Cataract Treatment

When symptoms start to present themselves, many people can get by with the help of stronger magnification in their glasses. Once cataracts become debilitating to your life and treatment with glasses can no longer mitigate them, consider having cataract surgery. There is no need to go through life with severely poor vision when a simple and easy surgery exists to bring your sight back.

During cataract surgery, we will remove the clouded lens and replace with a clear, plastic intraocular lens.

Call us today at 360-573-3937 to schedule your appointment for better vision!