Cataracts. Some Interesting Facts

While cataracts are one of the most common eye disorders in the United States and around the world, too few people understand the causes, symptoms and treatment options. The Cataract Specialists at SoCal Eye have been treating Cataract patients in Long Beach, Garden Grove and Los Angeles County for over 50 years. Please call 562 531 2020 or request an appointment online.  

Here are five cataract facts you may find surprising…

Cataracts are the leading cause of vision loss in the U.S.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that nearly 30 million Americans have cataracts. That’s more than twice the total number of people with glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration – combined.

One out of every six Americans over age 40 has cataracts.

Most people think of cataracts as only affecting the elderly, but symptoms and vision loss from cataracts often start as early as age 40. The likelihood of developing cataracts doubles in your 50’s and doubles again in your 60’s. By the age of 80, more than 50% of Americans have cataracts.

Babies can be born with cataracts.

Although rare, some babies are born with cataracts, a condition known as congenital cataracts. Infections in the mother during pregnancy, such as rubella, syphilis, chicken pox and cytomegalovirus, can cause the condition, as can some other metabolic problems, diabetes, trauma, inflammation, and drug reactions.

Smoking and excessive sunlight add to the risk of developing cataracts.

Smoking doubles the risk of developing nuclear sclerotic cataracts and triples the risk for subscapular cataracts. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can also promote cataract development, reinforcing the importance of wearing UV-blocking sunglasses outdoors.

Surgery is the only effective treatment for cataracts.

Cataracts permanently damage the natural eye lens. The only way to restore a patient’s vision, therefore, is by surgically replacing the natural lens with an artificial lens. Cataract surgery is one of the most common surgical procedures in the world and is recognized as safe and effective. Traditional and laser-assisted surgical options are available.

SoCal Eye – Cataracts, Long Beach:

Cataracts, Long Beach. All treatment begins with a Consultation with a SoCal Eye Cataract Specialist or Cataract Surgeon in Long Beach. At this consultation, the Ophthalmologist will perform a complete eye exam with dilation and discuss Lens Implant options that are right for you. SoCal Eye feels strongly that patients should be informed and educated on all applicable lens technologies when they make their final IOL selection. The right choice is never a default to a Premium IOL.

Please contact SoCal Eye for a Cataract evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment plan. Call  (562) 531-2020 or send us an Online Consultation Request

Schedule a Consultation Today!

Call us at the numbers below or schedule online:

LAKEWOOD
(562) 531-2020

LOS ALAMITOS
(562) 598-7728

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