Cataracts are an eye condition that occurs when the lens of your eye becomes cloudy, making it difficult to see clearly and perform daily life activities like reading or driving. Once diagnosed, the only possible treatment for it is through a surgical procedure in which the affected lens is replaced with an artificial one to restore vision.
Guilford Eye Center, the trusted provider of prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses in the area, discusses the various types of cataracts.
Nuclear Cataracts
Nuclear cataracts are the most common cataract type, and they develop in the nucleus of the eye. It is usually age-related and develops slowly over time. Symptoms include blurry vision, difficulty seeing at night, dulled colors, double vision and sensitivity to light.
Cortical Cataracts
Cortical cataracts form along the outer edges of your eye’s lens and can grow slowly from the outside in. They tend to cause hazy or foggy vision, glare sensitivity, light rays that appear distorted or bent, double vision and colors looking faded.
Subcapsular Cataracts
Subcapsular cataracts form near the back of your eye’s lens and are more common in people with diabetes. Symptoms include blurry vision, difficulty seeing at night, increased sensitivity to glare and light, faded colors and double vision.
Congenital Cataracts
Congenital cataracts are present at birth and can occur in one or both eyes. They may also be caused by genetics, injury, infection or some other underlying medical condition. Symptoms include blurry vision, sensitivity to light and glare, double vision and clouded vision in just one eye or both eyes.
Diagnosing Cataracts
Managing cataract symptoms starts with a visit at an eye care center. There, your eye doctor will check your eyes for any signs of the eye condition. They may be able to provide a diagnosis, but only after running you through tests such as visual acuity test, tonometry, refraction tests, slit-lamp examination, ophthalmoscopy and pupil dilation. Depending on the severity of your condition and other factors like age or health history, your optometrist may suggest further testing or treatment options for managing your cataracts.
Early detection is the key to protecting your eyes from conditions that may compromise your vision, including cataracts. At Guilford Eye Center, our team of experienced optometrists can provide comprehensive eye exams, as well as treatment options for various eye conditions, including LipiFlow® for dry eyes. Call us today at (336) 292-4516, or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve residents of High Point, NC, and the surrounding communities.
