At What Age Should I Start Worrying About Cataracts?

Are you concerned about cataracts and wondering when you should start paying attention to this common vision issue? You're not alone. Many of our patients at Millennium Park Eye Center share these concerns. While cataracts are commonly associated with aging, they can affect anyone, and being informed is your first step toward maintaining clear vision. Our state-of-the-art facility in the heart of Chicago is equipped with the latest advancements in eye care technology, ensuring that you receive the best possible care from diagnosis to treatment.

Understanding Cataracts

A cataract develops when proteins in the eye’s lens clump together, obscuring vision. This process typically begins due to aging but can also be influenced by other factors such as diabetes, prolonged exposure to ultraviolet sunlight, smoking, and certain medications. Symptoms often include blurry vision, colors that seem faded, difficulty with vision at night, and a noticeable glare around lights.

When to Be Vigilant

While cataracts are predominantly found in those aged 60 and older, they can begin to form as early as 40. In fact, by the age of 40, many individuals may begin to develop small cataracts, although they usually don't affect vision until many years later. This is why our eye care professionals emphasize the importance of regular eye examinations, which can detect cataracts and other eye health issues long before symptoms occur. These regular check-ups can catch cataracts in their earliest stages, making monitoring and eventual treatment easier.

Treatment Is Simple and Effective

Worrying about cataracts isn't necessary, even if you are diagnosed with them. Treatment for cataracts has advanced significantly and is straightforward, typically involving a safe, quick surgical procedure where the cloudy lens is replaced with a clear artificial lens. This surgery is highly successful and is routinely performed with minimal discomfort and recovery time.

At Any Age, There’s No Need for Worry

In conclusion, while it’s good to be informed and vigilant about the health of your eyes, there is no need to worry unduly about cataracts. With regular eye exams, any potential issues can be identified and treated early, ensuring your vision remains clear and your eyes healthy. If you do reach a point where cataract surgery is a good idea, our outstanding ophthalmologists can ensure your procedure is a success. Contact our Chicago office at 312-996-2020.