Cataracts are an incredibly common part of the aging process. They occur when the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy. Genetic factors, eye injury, and illness can also lead to the formation of cataracts.

Age-related cataracts usually form slowly over the years as proteins in the lens clump together over time. But the progression of cataracts from an illness, trauma, certain medications, or exposure to radiation or sunlight is faster. If this happens, you’ll need to see a doctor as soon as possible.

Cataracts can’t spread from one eye to the other and aren’t contagious. But, one or both of your eyes could have cataracts.

Even if both eyes have cataracts they can develop differently. One eye could progress faster or be worse than the other.

Many people with cataracts may not realize how serious they are. After all, they aren’t life-threatening. But they come with their own dangers if you leave them untreated. Keep reading to learn more!

Can Cataracts Cause Blindness?

Cataracts change the tissue in your eye lens. When left untreated, they can cause many problems. This may include:

  • Loss of color definition
  • Double vision
  • Light sensitivity
  • Difficulty seeing at night
  • Haziness
  • Total blindness

In fact, cataracts are one of the main causes of blindness in the U.S. The good news is, you can have cataracts removed during cataract surgery.

A surgeon can remove your cataract and your natural lens once they impair your vision. The natural lens is then replaced with an artificial lens.

Cataract surgery is a common procedure and is quite safe. Having the procedure allows you to finally regain your clear vision.

Why Are Cataracts Dangerous?

While cataracts are not life-threatening, they can be a hazard to you as well as those around you if you leave them untreated. People with cataracts gradually lose their vision.

You may still try to do things in your daily routine even if you can’t see as well as you used to like driving. This is why you need to see your ophthalmologist for regular eye exams.

Even if you have cataracts, they may not recommend surgery until your vision is severely affected. Talk to your eye doctor about the risks your cataracts pose and how you can prevent vision loss in the future.

Can Cataracts Grow Back?

A lasting and effective solution to cataracts is surgery. Having surgery replaces the natural eye lens with an artificial one.

The biggest advantages of an artificial lens are it cannot develop clumps or degrade, which is what causes cataracts. Cataracts can’t grow back once your old lens is replaced with a new, artificial one.

Cataract Surgery with Joshi Eye Institute

If you have cataracts and wish to explore your options, the eye doctors at Joshi Eye Institute are here to help. Our team of ophthalmologists will explain your options, as well as discuss the benefits of surgery.

Joshi Eye Institute is dedicated to providing superior quality eye care. This makes us an industry authority in cataract surgery.

Ready to see a clearer future? Schedule a cataract screening at Joshi Eye Institute in Boynton Beach, FL today!