Common Cataract Myths and Facts 2025
Though cataracts are the leading cause of vision loss worldwide, myths persist in their cause and treatment. Cataracts affect nearly 22 million Americans age 40 and older.
Cataracts are a natural result of aging. As the eye’s lens, which sits behind the pupil, grows older, its cells die and accumulate, turning the lens yellow and cloudy. The result is blurred vision and “fuzzy” images. Eye injuries, certain medications, prolonged sun exposure and diseases such as diabetes are also known to cause cataracts.
Common Cataract Myths
Close-up tasks like reading or sewing make cataracts worse.
FACT: No. Cataracts are not cause by how people use their eyes. However, cataracts become more noticeable during close work. One sign of a cataract is the need for more light to do the same activities well.
Cataracts are reversible.
FACT: No. The lens naturally clouds as it ages. This process is unavoidable. However, its progress can be slowed by quitting smoking, eating a balanced diet, and wearing sunglasses with 100% UVA and UVB protection. ·
Cataract surgery is dangerous, and recovery takes months.
FACT: No. Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most highly perfected surgical procedures in medicine, with a 95 per cent success rate.
Cataracts “grow back.”
FACT: No. Cataracts develop as the lens’ cells die and accumulate; they are not a “growth” that sits on top of the eye. Occasionally patients do develop a different, secondary cataract, though. When the membrane that holds the new lens implant becomes cloudy. But this can be treated with laser surgery and procedure usually done at a doctor’s office.
Griffin Eye Center Advanced Cataract Surgery requires special expertise from a fellowship trained cataract surgeon. Griffin Eye Center, Ophthalmic Surgeons, Neil B. Griffin, M.D., and Sarah E. Griffin, M.D., specialize in cataract, cornea, and LASIK surgery. Both surgeons are fellowship trained, staffed with an experienced, ophthalmic team which offers a consultation to help you decide which lens will fit your unique lifestyle.
If you are looking for a cataract surgeon or want to know your options for cataract surgery visit griffineyecenter.com or schedule an appointment 843-449-6414.