Oak Valley Health’s patient education pages share the skills, knowledge, and habits patients and families need to know to cope with a daily health issue. We hope this information can influence patient behaviour to improve health outcomes and provide you with a sense of control and autonomy.
Learn more about the risks, causes, and treatment of cataracts
A cataract is a protein buildup that causes your eye’s lens to become cloudy. Normally, the lens is clear. It is located in the area of the eye behind the iris and pupil. The lens focuses light on the retina, allowing you to see clearly. Your vision may become blurry if the lens becomes cloudy.
Cataracts can produce a number of visual symptoms including blurred vision and glare. They can occur in one or both eyes and if very severe can cause the pupil to appear white.
Age related eye changes
It is developed when the buildup of protein clouds the lens and lets less light pass through to the retina, which causes blurry vision
Other causes include certain medications, trauma, and/or inflammation
Increasing age, especially those over 60 years
Diabetes
High blood pressure
Certain medications, like steroids or hormone replacement therapy
Family history of cataracts
Smoking and/or drinking alcohol heavily
Sun exposure without eye protection
Obesity
Previous eye trauma or surgery
Vision is blurred (like looking through a dirty window)
Glare from lights
Cataracts are treated with surgery (removal of the dirty lens and replacement with a clear implant)
