What are Cataracts
Cataracts are a common age-related eye condition and a leading cause of vision loss in people over 60. Cataracts occur when the normally clear lens inside the eye becomes cloudy. They can develop slowly or rapidly depending on the underlying cause.
Types of Cataracts
Cataracts can be categorized based on their location in the eye or their cause:
Based on Location
- Nuclear cataract (Nuclear Sclerosis) – the most common type found in aging eyes, affecting the central area of the lens
- Posterior Subcapsular cataract – develops at the back of the lens, often causing glare and difficulty with reading or night vision
- Anterior Subcapsular cataract – form at the front of the lens, typically linked to inflammation or trauma
- Cortical cataract – form in the periphery of the lens and move inward, looking like wedge-like opacities
Based on Cause
- Traumatic cataract – resulting from eye injury
- Secondary cataract – caused by medication, systemic conditions (I.e. Diabetes), radiation etc.
- Congenital cataract – present at birth or during childhood
The only permanent treatment for all types of cataracts involves cataract surgery performed by an ophthalmologist (eye specialist).
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty with night driving
- Difficulty with reading and vision under low light levels
- Glare or halos
- Double vision or streaking
- Faded or dull color perception
Important: Cataracts often do not cause complete blindness but can significantly affect vision if left untreated. This can affect eligibility to drive safely in Alberta and a feeling of loss of independence. Book in with us and discuss your options with one of our doctors at Innisfail Eyecare Centre.
Risk factors include:
- Age 60 and older
- Excessive sun (UV) exposure
- History of Diabetes and other systemic health conditions
- Smoking
- History of trauma and eye injuries
- Certain medications
- Congenital factors (present from birth)
Routine comprehensive eye exams are essential, especially if you're over 60 or have risk factors. Early detection allows us to monitor changes and coordinate care including timely referrals for cataract surgery when needed.
Our Cataract evaluations may include
- Visual acuity testing
- Refraction – check to see if an updated glasses prescription can improve vision
- OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) – detailed scan of retinal layers
- Optos Fundus Imaging – wide-field retinal imaging
- Tonometry – measures intraocular pressure
- Dilation – to examine the back of your eye thoroughly
Treatment plans are tailored to your needs. This may include updated eyewear for optimal vision, education on risk factor modification and if necessary, referral to an ophthalmologist for cataract surgery.
Cataract surgery is a common low risk surgery with excellent success rates. Cataract surgery involves replacing the cloudy lens with a clear artificial lens which can be customized to correct distance, intermediate or near vision, or a combination of these, sometimes reducing the need for glasses after surgery.
At Innisfail Eyecare Centre our skilled team of optometrists are dedicated to your optimal visual outcome and will help guide you through this process before and after surgery. Co-management with ophthalmology following cataract surgery is provided at Innisfail Eyecare Centre.
Don’t Wait – Protect Your Sight
If you are experiencing symptoms or are at risk, book an eye exam today. Cataracts are often diagnosed at routine comprehensive eyes exams.
Call 403-227-3366 To Discuss