Cataracts
Cataract is a clouding of the lens, which is a normal aging process. However, several conditions exist that can lead to a clouding of the lens at a younger age as well.
Symptoms
The increasing opacity of the lens caused by cataracts leads to a loss of acuity, blurry vision and impaired colour vision. Since the clouding of the lens can proceed very slowly, it is not unusual for patients to remain unaware of their loss of acuity. It is therefore essential to have regular eye examinations even if you do not perceive to have any issues with your eyes.
Surgery
Cataracts used to be the main cause of blindness of the old. Today, however, cataracts can be treated by a standard and relatively risk-free surgical procedure. Cataract surgery removes the clouded lens from the eye and replaces it with an artificial lens. Today, cataract surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis.