What is a cataract?

A cataract is a cloudiness in the lens of the eye. The lens is about the size of an aspirin and is located inside the eye, behind the pupil.

What causes cataracts?

Most Cataracts are due to changes associated with the natural aging process, but cataracts can also be caused by severe injuries to the eye or head and certain diseases.

What is the treatment for cataracts?

In the early stages cataracts cause vision changes which can be corrected satisfactorily with changes in glasses. Eventually, this may not be satisfactory and surgical treatment is needed to remove the clouded lens of the eye. Most persons now receive implants which are small plastic lenses inserted into the eye to replace the cloudy lens which has been removed.

At what age do cataracts develop?

Most cataracts start to cause changes in the vision between the ages of 65 and 75. Different types of cataracts progress at different rates so the time before surgical treatment is necessary varies.

What are the symptoms of cataracts?

Cataracts usually cause a gradual decrease in vision so blurred or hazy vision is a common symptom of cataracts. Persons developing cataracts usually need prescription changes much more often then they did in the past.

Can I have cataract surgery in Cannon Falls?

Yes, Dr. Ketcham provides cataract surgery monthly at the Cannon Falls Hospital. He also does pre-op examinations monthly at the Cannon Eye Clinic.

What checkups are needed after cataract surgery?

Most persons have followup exams one day, one week, and three weeks after their surgery. These are usually provided by Dr. Holte at the Cannon Eye Clinic.