Am I at Risk for Cataracts?
Cataracts are a clouding of the eye's lens that cause a gradual deterioration of vision if left untreated. It still remains the leading cause of blindness and a major cause of visual impairment worldwide. As with any condition, the sooner it is diagnosed the better. If you believe you may be at risk for cataracts, call our Sacramento ophthalmology practice at (916) 850-3060 to schedule an appointment.
When it comes to the matter of developing cataracts, age is the biggest factor. This is particularly true there is a family history of the condition or if you have a contributing existing medical condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure. Other risk factors for cataracts include:
- Previous eye injury, inflammation, or surgery
- Excessive sunlight exposure
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol
Medical treatments that include corticosteroid use and ionizing radiation may also increase a person's risk for developing cataracts. If you have any of these risk factors, it is critical to keep up-to-date with eye your eye exams.
During the early stages of cataracts there are few if any symptoms that you may experience. As a cataract grows it will begin to impact your vision significantly and you may develop a variety of symptoms, such as:
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Cloudy, blurry, or dim vision
- Trouble seeing at night
- Double vision
- Yellowing tint of the eye
- Glare from bright lights
- The appearance of a "halo" around light sources
If you are experiencing problems with your vision, contact Wilmarth Eye and Laser Center at (916) 850-3060 to schedule an appointment with Sacramento cataract surgeon Stephen Wilmarth M.D. today! We serve patients residing in and around the areas of Roseville, Rocklin, and Folsom California.
