Protect Your Vision
The natural aging process is usually to blame for the development of cataracts. However, injury, disease, use of steroids, and genetic predisposition can also lead to cataracts. Dr. Emilio Justo has been diagnosing cataracts at Arizona Eye Institute & Cosmetic Laser Center for many years. Serving Phoenix, Sun City, Sun City West, and Wickenburg patients, our facility is founded on providing exceptional care, phenomenal results, and an enriching patient experience. To schedule a consultation, contact our office today.
What Are Cataracts?
The crystalline lens of your eye lies behind the iris (the colored part) and focuses light onto the retina - a membrane located at the back of your eye that captures and records images like camera film. Cataracts are characterized by the clouding of the crystalline lens, obstructing the light entering the eye.
Natural Aging
As your eyes age, the lenses lose their flexibility, and become thicker and less transparent. The lens tissues break down, and its proteins cluster together to create a clouding effect. Small, low-impact age-related cataracts often develop between the ages of 40 and 50, and grow larger as patients near 60, when cataracts have the greatest effect on vision.
Ultraviolet Light
Exposure to sunlight and ultraviolet (UV) radiation can overcome the natural defenses of your eye, which are designed to protect your vision. UV light can penetrate the layers of skin in your eyelids, or surpass the protective structure of your face (overhanging brows, cheekbones, and nose), resulting in cataracts.
Medication
Long-term use of corticosteroids, which are often prescribed for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, skin conditions, and asthma, has been classified as a leading cause of cataracts. Studies show that other medications used to treat skin disorders such as psoriasis, psychosis, and glaucoma may be contributing to the development of cataracts.
Diabetes and Other Diseases
Patients with diabetes are 60% more likely to develop cataracts. Diabetic cataracts present themselves at a much earlier age, and tend to grow at an accelerated rate. Glaucoma and the surgeries and medications used to treat it can significantly increase your chances of developing cataracts. Chronic inflammation of the eye, or uveitis, is a rare condition that carries a high risk for cataracts.
Trauma
Blunt-force trauma, or a penetrating injury to the eye, can increase your risk for cataracts. Although rare, cataracts caused by infrared energy, electric shock, and ionizing radiation, are also classified as traumatic. Traumatic cataracts can be particularly challenging to treat, but detailed examinations and a carefully managed treatment plan can lead to excellent results.
Video: Cataract Surgery
Dr. Emilio Justo describes cataract surgery, its benefits and the steps involved in the procedure. This procedure is used to treat the clouding of the natural lens of the eye called cataracts. When left untreated, cataracts can lead to blindness, so it's essential to seek Dr. Justo's help if you're having trouble seeing clearly.
Learn More about the Causes of Cataracts
Dr. Justo founded his practice more than 20 years ago, and has helped thousands of patients reverse the effects of cataracts. Our state-of-the-art facility is equipped with the most advanced diagnostic and surgical technology, making us leaders in cataract treatment. If you think you may be at risk for the condition, or have been experiencing signs and symptoms of cataracts, contact Arizona Eye Institute & Cosmetic Laser Center today.
