What is a common age for developing cataracts?

Cataracts are the leading cause of vision loss throughout the world, yet the eye condition can be easily fixed when diagnosed early. Cataracts are usually age-related, but what is a common age for developing cataracts.

Cataracts
Cataracts are the result of clouding of the natural lens of the eye, which prevents light from passing through properly, resulting in blurry or impaired vision. The clouding of the lens occurs because of the accumulation of protein.

Cataracts can cause vision to deteriorate rapidly making activities such as reading, driving, or watching television difficult to do. Left untreated, it can eventually lead to blindness.In the early stages when there is only minimal vision loss eyeglasses may be prescribed to help with cataracts, but if the condition worsens, lens replacement surgery is recommended.

Symptoms
Blurry vision or difficulty seeing at night, are the most common signs of a developing cataract. The symptoms of a cataract are not usually noticeable until they start to interfere with vision.

Common age for developing cataracts
Cataracts have traditionally been associated with older people, as individuals in their 60’s are most likely to develop the condition.However, people in their 40’s and 50’s can also be affected, as well as those with health conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. Incidences of cataracts increase dramatically with age, but people with a family history of cataracts, in addition to those who smoke, are at an increased risk.

If you think you may have symptoms consistent with a developing cataract, contact ophthalmologist Dr. Jacqueline Griffiths of New View Eye Center, Reston, VA, for a thorough eye examination. New View Eye Center also serves the greater Washington DC area.

Call us today at 703-834-9777 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Griffiths.