As part of Cataracts Awareness Month, we at Anne Arundel Eye Center are trying to spread awareness about the different types of cataracts. So far, we have covered the Warning Signs of Subcapsular Cataracts, as well as The Signs and Sypmtoms of Nuclear Cataracts. And this week, we are going to focus on a third type of cataracts, Cortical Cataracts.
What is a Cortical Cataract?
Each type of cataract develops in a specific portion of the lens. A cortical cataracts forms in the shell layer of the lens, known as the cortex, and gradually extends its spokes from the outside of the lens to the center.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Cortical Cataracts?
The different types of cataracts each present themselves with different signs and symptoms. The signs and symptoms associated with cortical cataracts include:
- Vision loss
- Blurred vision or blurry vision
- Difficulty driving at night
- Double vision involving one eye (monocular diplopia)
If you feel you may be experiencing any of the above symptoms, schedule an appointment with your eye doctor as soon as possible. Any sudden change in your vision is a serious medical condition that requires prompt medical attention from your optometrist or ophthalmologist.
What are the Common Treatment Options for Cortical Cataracts?
While there are no scientifically approved medications designed to cure cataracts, there are several treatment options available, including:
- Prescription Glasses: Since cortical cataracts can result in decreased visual acuity, glasses may be prescribed to make up for the vision loss. However, this is only a short term solution as the cortical cataract continues to develop. Eventually, glasses will cease to be an effective method of treatment. When this happens it is probably time to consider cataract surgery.
- Cataract Surgery: When glasses fail to make up for the vision loss caused by a cortical cataract, cataract surgery may be your best option to restore your sight. Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure and involves the eye surgeon removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial lens.
A consultation with an experienced and knowledgeable Ophthalmologist will help determine if you have cataracts and, if necessary, guide you through your cataract treatment options.
To learn more about Cortical Cataracts and Proper Eye Health, please contact board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrist Dr. Nathan Frank, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com.
Located in Annapolis, Maryland, the Anne Arundel Eye Center offers comprehensive specialized ophthalmic exams as well as diagnostic pre and post-surgical eye care. Specializing in glaucoma and cataracts, Dr. Boles has helped restore and preserve thousands of patients’ vision.
Vision problems may be a natural part of aging. Losing your vision doesn’t have to be.
For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.