June Cataract Awareness Month Cataracts: third leading cause of blindness in the United States

By Jonathan M. Frantz, MD, FACS

Studies suggest that everyone who lives long enough will get cataracts, although there may be some reduced risk for individuals who eat properly, avoid sun exposure and do not smoke.

A cataract is not a disease but an aging process similar to graying hair. As the eye ages, the normal lens inside the eye becomes cloudy. The lens focuses light rays on the retina at the back of the eye to produce a sharp image of what we see. When the lens becomes cloudy, the light rays cannot pass easily through it, and the image becomes blurry. It can be compared to a window that is frosted or “fogged” with steam.

What causes a cataract?
Cataracts usually develop as part of the aging process. Other causes include:
• Family history
• Medical problems, such as diabetes
• Injury to the eye
• Medications, such as steroids
• Long-term, unprotected exposure to sunlight
• Previous eye surgery

The amount and pattern of cloudiness within the lens can vary. If the cloudiness is not near the center of the lens, you may not be aware that a cataract is present. However, many people experience common symptoms, which include:
• A painless blurring of vision
• Glare or light sensitivity
• Frequent eyeglass prescription changes
• Double vision in one eye
• Needing brighter light to read
• Fading or yellowing of colors

I am honored to be one of the top five laser cataract surgeons in the country. I introduced Bladeless Laser Cataract Surgery to southwest Florida in 2012 and continue to embrace the latest technology for my patients by being the first surgeon in the state of Florida to offer the VERION Image Guided System, which tracks your eye from the planning stages to your actual procedure. We also offer the area’s only ORA with VerifEye for an in-depth analysis of the eye during surgery. The combination of the most advanced technology, a wide choice of intraocular lenses, and our vast surgical experience offers area residents the opportunity to experience unparalleled cataract surgery.

A thorough eye examination can detect the presence and extent of a cataract, as well as other conditions that may be causing blurred vision or discomfort. If you think you may have cataracts, call Frantz EyeCare today at 239-430-3939 to schedule your cataract evaluation or visit www.BetterVision.net.

Jonathan M. Frantz, MD, FACS, is named in The Guide to America’s Top Ophthalmologists. He and his team of doctors at Frantz EyeCare offer a broad spectrum of patient-focused comprehensive care from eye exams and eyewear to bladeless laser cataract removal, bladeless WaveLight LASIK, treatment of eye diseases, eyelid surgery and facial cosmetic procedures with office locations in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Punta Gorda, Lehigh Acres, and Naples.
To make an appointment for your cataract evaluation online, visit www.bettervision.net or call the Naples office of Frantz EyeCare at 239-430-3939.