Cataracts Specialist

What are cataracts?

Cataracts cause the lens of your eye to become clouded. They form as you age when the proteins in your lenses break down. While aging is the most prominent cause of cataracts, you can also develop them after an eye injury, alongside a medical condition like diabetes, or because you’ve spent a lot of time in the sun, exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays. 

One of the best ways to protect your eyes from cataracts is to shield your eyes from the sun using sunglasses or eyeglasses with an anti-UV coating. You might still get cataracts from aging, especially if you have family members with cataracts. 

Am I at risk for cataracts?

Your risk for cataracts naturally increases with age, but there are a few other factors that make your risk for cataracts higher than average. They include:

• Smoking
• Heavy alcohol drinking
• Steroid medications
• Eye injuries and surgeries
  
  

If you’re concerned about cataracts, Dr. Leventhal helps you review your risk factors to reduce your chances of getting them. 

How can I tell if I have cataracts?

Cataracts come with several notable signs and symptoms. You might notice a few changes in your vision, including:

• Blurriness
• Seeing double
• Light sensitivity
• Trouble with night vision
• Duller colors
• Halos around lights
• Frequent prescription changes
  
  

Even if you don’t notice a change in your vision, someone else might be able to see a cataract as it develops in your eye. From the outside, cataracts make your pupils appear white, gray, clouded, or dusty.

What are my treatment options for cataracts?

Dr. Leventhal provides treatment for cataracts at Berkeley Heights Eye Group. Even if you notice no changes in your vision and no outward signs of cataracts, he checks for them during your comprehensive eye exams. Depending on the severity of your cataracts and their effect on your vision, Dr. Leventhal might recommend one or more of the following treatments:

Home care

In their early stages, cataracts are manageable with lifestyle changes and home care. Dr. Leventhal might recommend using brighter lights in your home, purchasing anti-glare glasses or sunglasses, or adding more greens to your diet to promote eye health. 

Corrective eyewear

To manage the changes in your vision from cataracts, Dr. Leventhal may update your prescription for glasses or contact lenses. 

Cataract surgery

Cataract surgery is a way to replace your clouded lenses with clear artificial lenses and improve your vision. Dr. Leventhal offers several types of specialty lens implants available as upgrades to make further vision improvements. 

For more information about cataracts and cataract surgery, book a consultation by phone or online at Berkeley Heights Eye Group today.