A cataract is a cloudiness that develops in the clear lens of the eye. Usually, this cloudiness worsens until it scatters or blocks the light trying to enter the eye and causes vision to become dim, blurry and distorted. A cataract is not a growth over the eye. It is the result of a chemical breakdown inside the clear lens of the eye. This breakdown is usually the result of the natural process of growing older. Most cataracts develop slowly and may take several years before seriously affecting a person's vision. The word cataract means white water falling because it is like looking through white, frothy water. A person with cataracts cannot see clearly and colors may appear dim and faded.

Your lens, about the size of an aspirin, is located directly behind the dark center of the eye known as the pupil. It consists of a transparent capsule or outer covering filled with a clear gel-like material. The lens and cornea work together to focus light rays onto the retina at the back of the eye.

No. Cataracts can develop at any age—even babies can be born with them—but the most common cause of cataracts is the aging process. Almost everyone, if they live long enough, will develop cataracts.

They are usually the result of one of the following:

• Aging—natural changes taking place during the normal aging process
• Injury—a severe blow or deep cut to the eye
• Birth defect—abnormal conditions in the eyes of unborn babies
• Harmful factors—disease, radiation, toxic chemicals, certain medications and too much exposure to ultraviolet light.

Unfortunately, there is no known way to keep cataracts from forming orto stop them from growing once they have developed. But protecting your eyes from bright sunlight or ultraviolet rays and eating a healthy diet may help delay cataract formation. There is also some evidence that anti-oxidantssuch as vitamins A, C and E may help slow cataract development.

There are no nerves inside the lens of your eye, so the formation ofcataracts does not generally cause pain, discomfort or redness.

No. There is no evidence that watching TV causes or speeds the growth of cataracts.

Your optometric physician usually discovers cloudiness beginning to form in the lens while checking your eyes during a routine eye examination. When this begins to interfere with normal daily activities, your eye doctor will usually recommend surgery.

No. They are not dangerous to the health of your eye unless they become "mature" and turn completely white. In this advanced stage, the cataract cancause inflammation and pain and should be removed immediately.

As cataracts develop, they often cause the eye to become nearsighted. For a while, prescription changes in your eyeglasses may help you see better until the cataract worsens. At this point, if you want good clear vision again, the only option is surgery.

You most likely need surgery if:

• You have been told by your eye doctor that you have a cataract
• Your vision no longer meets your needs and interferes with daily activities
• Your ability to see cannot be improved with glasses anymore
• Your eye doctor recommends surgical treatment
• You want something done to improve your eyesight

Your optometric physician can discuss your options and help you decide if cataract surgery is the best choice for you. Only you and your doctor can decide when the time is right.

Not anymore. Years ago, patients were encouraged to wait until their cataracts were fully developed—ripe or mature—and they were almost blind. At that time, surgical methods were so risky that treatment was put off as long as possible. But with the sophisticated equipment and surgical techniques we use today, it is easier on the eye, and better for vision to remove a cataract earlier instead of later.