A cataract is a clouding of the lens in the eye that affects vision. Cataracts usually develop slowly and cause no pain. A few of the symptoms of a cataract are halos around lights, clouded vision or dim vision, sensitivity to light or glare and poor night vision.

Cataracts cannot be cured with medications, dietary supplements, exercise or optical devices.The only effective treatment for cataracts is to remove the clouded lens from the eye through a surgical incision and replace it with a clear lens implant. If you have cataracts in both eyes, it is best to wait until your first eye heals before having surgery on the second eye.

• Regular eye exams are key to cataract detection.
• Cataracts do not typically change the appearance of your eye.
• A cataract can develop in one or both eyes.
• More than 2 million cataract surgeries are performed each year.

Will I live longer if I have this procedure?

There is no scientific evidence that cataract surgery will lengthen your life.

Will the treatment of cataract surgery improve my quality of life?

When vision loss starts to interfere with your everyday activities and quality of life, you may want to consider discussing cataract surgery with your doctor.

Does the treatment of cataract surgery make my symptoms better?

Most people who have cataract surgery have no problems and have improved vision after cataract surgery.

How safe is this for me?

As with any surgery, there are risks such as infection and bleeding. Talk with your doctor and learn about the risks, benefits and expected results from cataract surgery.

Minor reported complications:

• Itching
• Mild discomfort
• Fluid discharge
• Eye sensitivity to light and touch

Major reported complications:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Swelling
• Loss of vision

Alternative treatment (behavioral modification) that may help prevent/delay cataracts includes:

• Wearing sunglasses and a hat with a brim may block ultraviolet sunlight to help delay cataracts.
• Eating a diet with green leafy vegetables, fruit and other foods with antioxidants may help reduce the risk of age-related cataracts.
• Do not smoke. Smoking increases your risk for cataracts.

Cataract surgery costs vary based on severity, type of removal procedure and lens replacement.

The cost may or may not be covered by insurance.

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