According to the CNIB (Canadian National Institute of the Blind), upwards of 2.5 million Canadian residents experience cataracts. Developing as a result of the aging of the crystalline lens, in which it begins to harden and turn opaque and cloudy, it is one of the primary causes of vision loss in Canada. Most commonly seen in seniors above age 60, they are also experienced by some young children and adults. Congenital cataracts are those found in infants at birth.
Most cases of cataracts are due to the natural aging process, however there are other possible contributing factors including trauma, disease, smoking, heredity and ultraviolet exposure. Preventative action one can take includes eating antioxidant-rich food, taking vitamin supplements and shielding your eyesight from potentially harmful UV rays. Because of the possibly damaging consequences of cataracts, it is worth it to take good care of your overall health and be proactive about vision care to help decrease your chances of experiencing them during your lifetime.
Your Orillia Optometrist will observe the advancement of cataracts and advise options for treatment. Luckily modern cataract surgical treatments are highly effective and many patients report their vision has improved following the extraction of a cloudy lens and the implantation of an artificial lens. This procedure is one of the safest and most perfected that is done today, so you can feel confident choosing it to treat the condition of cataracts.
