Cataracts Explained in San Antonio, TX

Usually, cataracts are simply an unavoidable part of the aging process that begins to appear after 40 years of age when the proteins comprising the lens of the eye usually begin to degrade or clump together. The opacity caused by cataracts gradually gets worse and prevents light from hitting the retina the way it should. This opacity of the lens of the eye ultimately leads to reduced vision, and often, complete blindness if not found early and treated correctly.

Dr. Victoria Perez and her group of eye care professionals are equipped to detect and help you manage cataracts in the initial stages and successfully navigate any worsening symptoms. At Texas State Optical Bandera, we help people suffering from cataracts virtually every day. Developing cataracts is quite common, and cataract surgery is the most common surgery done in this country. Around two million people receive cataract surgery a year. Cataracts can develop very slowly so men and women with the primary stages commonly don't realize their condition. This condition is an important reason why undergoing in-depth eye exams no less than every other year is vital to your overall ocular health.

Reach out to our highly trained team and visit our San Antonio, TX practice soon to schedule a comprehensive exam, and find out how we can help you manage your symptoms.

Developing cataracts is influenced by several risk factors. Age is the primary factor, with most cataracts occurring in older adults. A family history of cataracts can also increase the likelihood of developing them. Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, elevate the risk, as does prolonged exposure to UV rays from the sun. Lifestyle choices like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption significantly contribute to the risk. Previous eye injuries and the prolonged use of certain medications, like corticosteroids, can also lead to cataracts. Additionally, exposure to radiation, including radiation therapy for cancer, is a known risk factor. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and good overall health, can play a role in mitigating these risks.

Cataracts are caused by changes in the structure of the eye's lens, leading to a cloudy or opaque appearance that interferes with vision. These changes occur when proteins in the lens begin to break down and clump together, disrupting the lens's natural transparency. Aging is the most common cause of this process, as the lens naturally becomes less flexible, thicker, and more prone to protein clumping over time. In some cases, cataracts develop due to oxidative stress in the eye, where the lens cells are damaged by free radicals. Other causes include trauma that physically disrupts the lens structure, congenital factors where cataracts are present from birth, or specific metabolic imbalances that impact lens clarity. Prolonged exposure to harmful substances or conditions, such as ultraviolet (UV) light or medications like corticosteroids, can also trigger lens changes leading to cataracts.

Cataracts are diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam by an eye care professional. During this appointment, Dr. Perez may perform the following:

• A routine acuity test to determine how well you can see at various distances
• A contrast sensitivity test to see how well you can distinguish objects against a background
• A slit-lamp exam to examine the outermost structures of the eye
• A retinal exam to check the health of the retina and optic nerve
• A potential acuity (PAM) test to determine the potential improvement in vision after cataract surgery

In addition, Dr. Perez may also dilate your pupils and use special instruments to examine the lens of your eye for signs of cataracts. This thorough examination allows for early detection and proper management of cataracts.