Are you at risk?
The most common type of cataract is related to aging of the eye. By age 80, more than half of all Americans either have a cataract or have had cataract surgery (according to the National Eye Institute). All persons 65 and over should be evaluated for cataracts through a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years.
Age is the most common factor. You may be at a higher risk of developing cataracts if you:
- Smoke
- Use steroid medications
- Suffered an eye injury
- Have diabetes
- Have had prolonged exposure to sunlight
- Are obese
- Are an alcoholic
- Have a family history of cataracts
If you have any of these risk factors, you should schedule an appointment with your ophthalmologist, Eye M.D., for an exam.
Cataracts are a common cause of decreased vision, particularly for seniors, but they are treatable. Your Eye M.D. can tell you whether cataract or some other problem is the cause of your vision loss and can help you decide if cataract surgery is appropriate for you.
Regular medical eye exams can help prevent unnecessary vision loss. The American Academy of Ophthalmology now recommends that adults with no signs or risk factors for eye disease get a baseline eye disease screening at age 40—the time when early signs of disease and changes in vision may start to occur. Based on the results of the initial screening, an Eye M.D. will prescribe the necessary intervals for follow-up exams.
