UNDERSTANDING CATARACTS

Cataracts

Your eye has a clear lens through which light passes, allowing you to see. When the lens loses its transparency, the cloudy tissue that develops is known as a cataract.

Cataracts cause progressive, painless loss of vision. The lens clouds naturally as you age, so people over the age of 65 usually see a gradual reduction of vision. No one is exactly sure what causes cataracts. In younger people, they can result from an injury, certain medications, or illnesses such as diabetes. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light may also play a role in the formation of cataracts. Studies have also shown that people who smoke cigarettes have a higher risk of developing cataracts than non-smokers.

Although cataracts usually develop without apparent pain, some indications that a cataract may be forming are as follows:

Blurred or hazy vision
Double vision
Poor vision in bright light
Seeing halos around lights
Yellowish tinged vision
Night vision difficulty

If visual impairment interferes with your ability to read, work or do the things you enjoy then you will want to consider cataract surgery. Surgery is the only proven means of effectively treating cataracts. Cataract surgery is a relatively painless and one of the most frequently performed procedures. It has a very high success rate, and more than 90 percent of cataract surgery patients regain useful vision. Drs. Haverly and Manasse perform advanced cataract surgery with excellent outcomes and very high success rates.

"The laser corrective surgery is probably one of the best decisions I have made in my lifetime. I wore glasses for 34 years, and it is truly a blessing not to wear them anymore. The procedure is short and virtually painless. As a person who has had this done I would recommend laser surgery to anyone who is a candidate and who can afford it. Dr. Haverly's staff was very, very professional and courteous. It is truly a miracle. Thank you."
Mark Jordanm, Coordinator, age 39

"I had laser refractive surgery because I did not want to bother with contacts. I like being able to see clearly when I wake up in the morning and not have to fumble around for glasses. It's wonderful being able to see objects in the distance without aid. I highly recommend Laser Eye Surgery of Erie. The surgery was quick and painless. Dr. Haverly, Dr. Gellis, and the office staff have been wonderful through this experience."
Joanne Troutman, Clerical Worker, age 40

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