Cataracts | Ideal Optical

See through the Fog with Ideal Optical

The lens is an integral part of our eyes that helps us see. Its primary job is to bring objects at varying distances into focus by changing its shape. As we age, this lens clouds over time, creating something called a cataract.

Cataracts happen to nearly everyone, and most often those over 60. Despite being one of the most treatable eye diseases, cataracts remain the leading cause of blindness in Canada.

Symptoms of Cataracts

When you start to develop cataracts, you may notice the following symptoms:

Blurry or cloudy vision
Decreased night vision
Halos around lights
Increased sensitivity to light
Film over eyes that will not clear

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Causes of Cataracts

Most cataracts develop slowly as we age; however, some cataracts form from other causes.

Cataracts can occur after injury or even surgery, but health conditions, like diabetes, can increase your risk of developing cataracts and other eye diseases. Some medications, like long-term steroid use, can also increase your risk. And, although rare, children can be born with cataracts.

Some other factors that can put you at a higher risk of developing cataracts include:

Excessive exposure to sunlight
Smoking
Excessive drinking
Obesity
High blood pressure

Preventing Cataracts

There is no real way to completely prevent cataracts. But, you can slow how quickly they develop by wearing UV protection while outdoors or exposed to UV rays and eating eye-friendly foods:

Small red beans
Blueberries
Pecans
Red berries (cranberries, strawberries, raspberries)
Prunes
Apples
Artichokes
Dark green vegetables (kale, broccoli, etc.)

Ask Us About Cataracts

Mild cataracts can be easily managed with eyeglasses or contact lenses. However, if your cataracts start interfering with your quality of life and your corrective lenses are not helping, you may require cataract surgery.

Cataract surgery involves removing the eye’s natural clouded lens and replacing it with an artificial lens. The procedure is safe, and the surgery is effective, and you may not even require eyeglasses after the surgery.

Book Your Appointment

Cataracts are easily diagnosed during a comprehensive eye exam. If you suspect you may have cataracts, or want to know more about cataract surgery, please book your appointment today. We would be more than happy to give you all the information you need on the management and treatment of cataracts!

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Where to Find Us

We are in the Mississauga Marketplace in the South East corner of Hurontario and Eglinton Avenue. Parking is free, and wheelchair accessible spots are available. Visit us today!