A New Look at Cataracts
 By Lawrence Ronning, M.D.

A cataract is the clouding of the natural crystalline lens of the eye. When light passes through the lens, it focuses the picture you see onto the retina, which in turn is sent to the brain to form an image. A cloudy lens makes it hard for light to pass through and the picture to focus properly. Therefore, a cataract affects both the quantity and quality of vision. It does not just affect how well you see the eye chart but creates problems with "real world" vision.

Contrary to what many people believe, a cataract is not a growth or film and does not spread from one eye to the other, though it can develop in both eyes. Cataracts are not a disease and do not need to fully progress or"ripen" in order to be treated.

Common symptoms of cataracts include blurred vision, glare, haloes, ghosting or double vision, and trouble seeing shades or colors. A cataract may cause problems with driving, reading, seeing faces, watching TV, work, or hobbies. Your depth perception may be altered, and you may experience an increased sensitivity to light.

To check for cataracts, you need a complete eye examination. This includes a vision evaluation, microscope examination, intraocular pressure check, and retina and optic nerve examination. Other ancillary tests are sometimes needed as well. During the vision evaluation, you may not only use the eye chart but could also be tested for glare, contrast, and color.

Cataract treatment depends on each individual and his or her needs. You may try changing your glasses, using a magnifying glass, wearing sunglasses when outside, and improving the lighting in your home. However, the only definitive treatment is surgery. You and your doctor can discuss the best plan of action.

The goals of surgery are to remove the cloudy lens (cataract) and replace it with an artificial lens (IOL). With modern cataract surgery, refractive errors of the eye are also corrected. Near-sightedness, far-sightedness, astigmatism, and even presbyopia may be improved. While you may still need glasses for some tasks, many patients don't use glasses at all, even for reading. More options are available for full vision correction than ever before.

 Dr. Lawrence Ronning is a board-certified ophthalmologist at North Canton Medical Foundation. He takes special interest in cataract and implant surgery, glaucoma, LASIK and refractive surgery, and eye plastic surgery. To learn more or schedule an appointment, please call 330-433-1350.