Cataracts are a normal occurrence in an aging eye: your transparent eye lens begins to cloud over with the gradual build-up of naturally-occurring proteins in the eye. Instead of allowing light to enter properly, the cloudy lens creates a blurry appearance to everything you see.

This process does not happen overnight. It is typically a slow development that makes it increasingly difficult to see things clearly and perform daily tasks.

Symptoms of Cataracts

While cataracts are typically associated with aging, they can also occur due to disease, injury, birth defect or certain medications. Symptoms can include:

• Hazy/blurry/cloudy vision
• Glare and starbursts with night driving
• Dull appearance of colors
• Vision takes on a yellowish/brownish tint
• Eye sensitivity in bright light

Types of Cataracts

You can have a cataract in one or both eyes. The position of your cataract will affect what type of vision disturbance you have.

• Nuclear cataract: occurs in the center of the lens, often creating temporary near vision improvement
• Cortical cataract: occurs around the edges of the lens, often resulting in spoke-like opacities that move to the center of the lens
• Subcapsular cataract: occurs at the back of the lens, often presenting with symptoms early in cataract development

Want to learn more about cataracts?

View our online cataract guide to learn more about cataracts and cataract surgery.

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Cataract Treatment in Central Florida

While there is no cure for cataracts, cataract surgery is a very common and effective procedure to restore clear vision. It is possible, and sometimes even recommended, that you live with cataracts for years before undergoing surgery if they are not affecting your daily life. At Pennachio Eye Dr. Michael P. Pennachio performs exams to assess your cataract development and will recommend cataract surgery when necessary.

Schedule Your Eye Exam in Clermont or Eustis

Contact us today to schedule an eye exam in Clermont or Eustis and learn more about your eye health and cataract treatment options.