Cataracts Specialist

What is a cataract?

A cataract refers to when the clear lens in your eye starts to get cloudy. Think about a cataract as you would a translucent window: You can kind of see through it but can’t make out details on the other side.

Cataracts form progressively and don’t always exhibit symptoms. The longer you leave your cataracts untreated, the higher your chances of experiencing vision issues. There are four leading types of cataracts:  

Nuclear cataracts

Nuclear cataracts form in the center of your lens. Over time, they can lead to nearsightedness and force your lens to turn brown or yellow. As the condition progresses, you might have difficulty distinguishing colors.

Cortical cataracts

Cortical cataracts refer to wedge-shaped cloudy areas that form at the edges of your lens. These areas refract light as it goes through the center of the eye, causing vision problems along the way.  

Posterior subcapsular cataracts

Posterior subcapsular cataracts stem from the back of the lens. Over time, these cataracts block the path of light, making it hard to read and have exposure to bright light. You might notice halos in your vision at night.

Congenital cataracts

Congenital cataracts don’t typically affect your vision. You’re either born with them, or you develop them during childhood. You should contact a team member at Harlem VistaSite Eye Care if your child starts experiencing symptoms.

What are the symptoms of cataracts?

The most common symptoms of cataracts include any of the following.

• Double vision
• Color fading
• Halo sightings around lights
• Clouded or blurred vision
• Problems seeing at night
• Frequent prescription changes
• Sensitivity to light

Get in touch with Harlem VistaSite Eye Care if you’ve experienced any of the above.

How is a cataract diagnosed?

Your doctor first starts by evaluating your symptoms and medical history. Once they have completed this preliminary evaluation, they might perform the following tests.

• Visual acuity test
• Retina exam
• Slit-lamp exam

These tests allow your doctor to check the health of your cornea, lens, and iris, as well as your ability to read.

How do you treat cataracts?

The most effective treatment for cataracts is surgery, though removing your cataracts isn’t urgent unless you start experiencing harsh symptoms. During your surgery, your doctor removes the clouded lens and replaces it with an artificial one.

If you’re having trouble seeing or relate to any of the above-listed symptoms, schedule an appointment with Harlem VistaSite Eye Care today by phone or through the online booking tool.