The typical path towards cataract removal discussed by your Orange County eye specialist

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, as many as 22 million adults in our country are affected by cataracts that are the clouding of the lens in one or both eyes. As age increases, so does the risk for cataracts, with statistics revealing that as many as half of those in the 80 and over age category have at least one eye affected by cataracts.

The eye is complex, with cataracts a possibility in one of three areas:

The nucleus, which is the lens’s innermost area; nuclear cataracts are some of the most common, associated with aging
The cortex, or outer part of the lens
The posterior capsule, a posterior subcapsular cataract may be seen in the individual who takes steroid medication, is obese, or has diabetes

Cataracts are very often associated with age, though other risk factors exist. With age as the instigator, we tend to see a typical progression toward cataract removal in our Orange County office.

The elliptical structure that is the lens is, when healthy, is transparent. The lens delivers light rays onto the retina, where they form a clear image. When we are young, the elastic lens will easily morph in its shape as it focuses on objects close up or in the distance. As we age, biochemical changes in the body have an effect on the lens. By our forties, lenses become harder due to decreases in certain proteins and substances. As the lens loses elasticity, a number of vision problems may develop, such as far-sightedness.

CALL OUR OFFICE FOR MORE INFORMATION

(949) 441-5444

Because of biochemical changes, the natural proteins present in the lens may accumulate in one distinct area, causing opacity, or cloudiness. This cloudiness, cataracts, tends to develop over a number of years, though the progression may be more rapid in some. Certain characteristics in cataracts, such as location and thickness, can make it difficult for light to pass through the lens and, therefore, interfere with vision and quality of life.

Dr. George Salib has treated thousands of patients and he is happy to serve the areas of Lake Forest, Laguna Hills, and more with outstanding care. If your vision is clouded by cataracts, we can help. Call (949) 441-5444 today.