How Cataracts Are Treated

Cataracts are a common eye condition that affects millions of people, gradually impairing vision as the lens of the eye becomes cloudy. This clouding prevents light from passing through clearly, leading to blurred vision, difficulty seeing at night, and increased sensitivity to glare. While cataracts are often associated with aging, they can develop for a variety of reasons, impacting your daily activities and overall quality of life.

Types of Cataracts

Cataracts can develop due to various factors, affecting different parts of the lens. Identifying the specific type of cataract is crucial in determining the best approach to treatment. Here are some common types of cataracts:

Senile Cataracts: These are the most common type of cataracts, which are caused by a change in protein structure of the natural crystalline (clear) lens as we age. Some patients develop senile cataracts earlier than others, and not every patient requires removal in every instance.
Secondary Cataracts: These develop as a result of underlying medical conditions or medications. Diabetes, prolonged steroid use, and certain inflammatory diseases can contribute to their formation. Unlike age-related cataracts, secondary cataracts can progress more rapidly and may require earlier intervention.
Pediatric Cataracts: Children can develop cataracts due to genetic conditions, infections during pregnancy, or metabolic disorders. These cataracts may be present at birth (congenital cataracts) or develop later in childhood. Early detection is crucial since untreated pediatric cataracts can interfere with normal vision development.
Traumatic Cataracts: Eye injuries from blunt force trauma, penetrating wounds, or chemical burns can lead to cataract formation. While some traumatic cataracts develop immediately after an injury, others may take years to become significant enough to affect vision. Prompt medical attention can help manage symptoms and determine the need for surgical treatment.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

Cataracts are a common eye condition, and their development can be influenced by a variety of factors. Understanding these risk factors can help you take proactive steps to protect your vision and prevent early cataract formation.

Aging: The most common cause, as the lens naturally becomes less transparent with age.
Ultraviolet (UV) Light Exposure: Prolonged exposure to UV rays from the sun can accelerate cataract formation. This is a modifiable risk factor, therefore it is important for all patients to wear UV protection when outdoors to prevent the acceleration of cataract formation.
Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Heavy drinking can increase the risk of cataracts due to its toxic effects on the eye's lens.
Chronic Health Conditions: Conditions like diabetes can lead to cataracts by affecting the lens's ability to maintain transparency.
Medications: Long-term use of corticosteroids or other medications can increase the likelihood of developing cataracts.
Genetics: Family history can play a role, with some individuals being genetically predisposed to develop cataracts earlier.

Non-surgical Management

Cataracts are a progressive condition, but in the early stages, you may not need immediate surgery. There are several ways to manage symptoms and maintain visual clarity before surgical intervention becomes necessary.

Updated Prescription Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses

If your cataracts are mild, updating your prescription for glasses or contact lenses can help compensate for vision changes. Stronger lenses can enhance clarity and improve near or distant vision, delaying the need for surgery. However, this is merely a temporary fix, as cataracts will keep progressing over time.

Adjustments to Lighting and Visual Aids

Brighter lighting and high-contrast reading aids can help you navigate daily tasks more comfortably. Using magnifying glasses or increasing font size on digital screens can also make reading easier. Additionally, anti-glare coatings on glasses can reduce sensitivity to bright lights and improve vision clarity in well-lit environments.

Lifestyle Changes and Protective Measures

Wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays can slow cataract progression by protecting your eyes from harmful light exposure. Reducing smoking and maintaining a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, such as leafy greens and vitamin C-rich foods, may also contribute to better eye health. Regular eye check-ups are essential to monitor cataract development and determine when surgery is necessary.

Surgical Treatment

While non-surgical methods can provide temporary relief, surgery is the only definitive treatment for cataracts. Cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed procedures worldwide and has an extremely high success rate, helping millions regain clear vision each year. Here’s the step-by-step process:

Anesthesia (Sedation General, Topical)

Before the procedure, your eye will be numbed using local anesthesia or eye drops. This ensures that you remain comfortable and pain-free during surgery. You will usually remain awake but sedated, allowing for a smooth and controlled experience. In some rare cases, patients require general anesthesia, which requires intubation (breathing tube) and complete sedation.

Small Incision in the Eye

The surgeon will make a small incision in the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye. This incision is typically self-sealing and does not require stitches, reducing the risk of complications and speeding up the healing process.

Removal of the Clouded Lens

Using ultrasound waves, the surgeon will break up the cataract-affected lens into tiny fragments. These fragments are then carefully suctioned out through the incision, leaving the eye ready for a new lens.

Insertion of an Artificial Lens

A clear, artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted in place of the removed lens. Various IOL options are available, including monofocal lenses for single-distance vision, multifocal lenses for multiple distances, and toric lenses to correct astigmatism. Your surgeon will recommend the best option based on your vision needs and lifestyle.

Post-operative Care and Recovery

Recovering from cataract surgery is typically quick. However, following your doctor’s instructions is crucial for ensuring the best possible outcome. After surgery, you will receive detailed care guidelines, including using prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. Adhering to these instructions will promote faster healing and optimal visual recovery. It is important to avoid contact with contaminated water such as hot tubs, baths, and pools for several weeks after surgery to avoid infection.

Protective Measures for the Eyes

Wearing an eye shield, especially while sleeping, helps prevent accidental rubbing or pressure on the healing eye. Sunglasses can protect against bright light and dust, reducing discomfort and irritation.

Expected Vision Improvement and Potential Side Effects

Though most patients notice improved vision within a few days, mild blurriness or sensitivity to light is common as the eye adjusts to the new lens. While complications are rare, reporting any severe pain, redness, or sudden vision changes to your doctor is essential.

At Ross Eye Institute, we specialize in advanced cataract treatment, offering personalized care to help you see clearly again. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a better vision.

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IPL Therapy with OptiLight® and OptiPLUS™: Advanced Dry Eye Treatment at Ross Eye Institute at UBMD

July 29, 2026

Dry, irritated eyes can make everyday activities such as uncomfortable. Artificial tears and other treatments may deliver temporary relief but do not always provide a permanent solution to the underlying cause of chronic dry eye. For many patients, the problem begins with meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), a common condition that affects tear film quality. At Ross Eye Institute at UBMD, we use advanced technology to treat the root cause of dry eye with OptiLight® IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) and OptiPLUS™ , helping patients achieve long-lasting comfort and healthier eyes. What Is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)? The meibomian glands are tiny oil-producing glands located along the edges of your eyelids. These glands release oils that help prevent tears from evaporating too quickly. When the glands become blocked or stop functioning properly, tears evaporate faster, leading to dry eye symptoms such as: Burning or stinging eyes Redness Blurred vision Gritty or sandy sensation Watery eyes Eye fatigue Light sensitivity MGD is a leading cause of dry eye disease and frequently worsens over time without treatment. What Is OptiLight® IPL? OptiLight® is an FDA-approved Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatment specifically tailored to manage dry eye disease associated with meibomian gland dysfunction. During treatment, the skin around the eyes is exposed to controlled pulses of light. These gentle pulses help reduce inflammation, improve meibomian gland function, and decrease abnormal blood vessels that contribute to chronic dry eye. Many patients notice gradual improvement after a series of treatments, with benefits including: Reduced dry eye symptoms Improved tear stability Less eyelid inflammation Greater comfort during daily activities Boosted overall eye health The procedure is non-invasive, requires little or no downtime, and usually takes a short office visit. What Is OptiPLUS™? OptiPLUS™ is often used alongside OptiLight® to deliver a more comprehensive treatment for dry eye disease. Following IPL therapy, OptiPLUS™ gently clears blockages from the meibomian glands, allowing healthy oils to flow more freely into the tear film. This combination targets both inflammation and gland obstruction, two major contributors to evaporative dry eye. Through combining these advanced technologies, patients may experience more effective and longer-lasting relief than with traditional treatments alone. Who May Benefit from IPL Dry Eye Treatment? OptiLight® and OptiPLUS™ may be recommended for patients who: Have chronic dry eye symptoms Have been diagnosed with meibomian gland dysfunction Depend on artificial tears multiple times each day Experience eyelid inflammation or redness Have not found sufficient relief from conventional treatments Spend long hours using digital devices A comprehensive eye exam lets your eye care specialist determine if these treatments suit your individual needs. What to Expect During Treatment Your provider will first evaluate your eyes and eyelids to determine the severity of your dry eye disease and meibomian gland function. During an OptiLight® session, protective shields cover the eyes while pulses of light are delivered to the treatment area. Patients often describe the sensation as a mild snapping against the skin. If OptiPLUS™ is included in your treatment plan, your provider will then gently express the meibomian glands to remove blockages and restore healthy oil flow. Most treatment plans include a series of treatments scheduled several weeks apart to get the best possible results. Find Lasting Relief from Dry Eye Living with chronic dry eye does not have to be your new normal. Advanced therapies like OptiLight® IPL and OptiPLUS™ treat the underlying causes of evaporative dry eye rather than just masking symptoms. At Ross Eye Institute at UBMD, our experienced eye care specialists extend personalized dry eye evaluations and advanced treatment options to help restore comfort, improve tear quality, and protect your long-term eye health. If dry, irritated eyes are affecting your quality of life, schedule an appointment to learn whether OptiLight® and OptiPLUS™ are right for you.

Dry Eye vs. Eye Allergies: How to Tell the Difference

June 30, 2026

Red, itchy, irritated eyes can be frustrating and uncomfortable. Many people assume these symptoms are caused by allergies, but dry eye syndrome can produce similar signs. Understanding the difference between dry eye and eye allergies is important to find the right treatment and protect your long-term eye health. At Ross Eye Institute at UBMD, our specialists work hard to identify the source of their symptoms and develop specific treatment plans to improve comfort and vision. Understanding Dry Eye Dry eye occurs when the eyes don’t make sufficient tears or when they evaporate too quickly. Tears play a key part in keeping the surface of the eye lubricated, nourished, and protected. Several variables lead to dry eye syndrome, including: • Aging • Extended screen time • Certain medications • Hormonal changes • Environmental conditions such as wind or dry air • Preexisting health conditions Dry eye symptoms may include: • Burning or stinging sensations • Gritty or sandy feeling in the eyes • Blurred vision • Eye fatigue • Sensitivity to light • Excessive tearing as a response to irritation Symptoms often worsen after reading, computer use, or prolonged visual tasks, so many patients notice discomfort later in the day. Understanding Eye Allergies Allergic conjunctivitis is a reaction to environmental allergens in which the eyes become inflamed. Common triggers include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold, and seasonal allergens. When the eyes come into contact with an allergen, the immune system responds by sending histamines through the body that cause inflammation and irritation. Common symptoms of eye allergies include: • Intense itching • Redness • Watery eyes • Swollen eyelids • Burning sensations • Mucus discharge Unlike dry eye, allergy symptoms often occur alongside other allergy-related issues such as sneezing, nasal congestion, or a runny nose. Key Differences Between Dry Eye and Eye Allergies Although the symptoms can overlap, several important differences may help distinguish between the two conditions. Itching Is More Common with Allergies Itching is often the hallmark symptom of eye allergies. While dry eye may cause irritation or discomfort, significant itching is more likely to be associated with an allergic reaction. Dry Eye Often Causes a Gritty Feeling Many patients with dry eye describe feeling as though sand or a foreign object is trapped in their eyes. This experience is less common with allergies. Allergies Usually Produce More Tearing Eye allergies often trigger excessive watering as the body responds to allergens. Dry eye can also cause reflex tearing, yet the eyes still feel dry. Symptoms May Follow Seasonal Patterns If symptoms worsen during spring or fall allergy seasons, eye allergies may be the cause. Dry eye symptoms persist year-round and may worsen in dry environments or during lengthy screen use. When to Schedule an Eye Examination Dry eye and eye allergies can look very similar, so a professional eye examination is often the best way to determine the underlying cause. You should schedule an evaluation if you experience: • Persistent redness or irritation • Ongoing blurry vision • Eye discomfort that does not improve • Frequent tearing or dryness • Light sensitivity • Symptoms that impede daily activities An eye care professional can assess tear production, evaluate the ocular surface, and find signs of allergies or other eye conditions. Finding Relief for Your Symptoms Proper diagnosis is the primary pathway to effective treatment. Dry eye management may include artificial tears, prescription medications, habit modifications, or advanced therapies. Eye allergy treatment often focuses on avoiding triggers and using antihistamines or anti-inflammatory medications when appropriate. At Ross Eye Institute at UBMD, we provide comprehensive eye care services to help patients find relief from dry eye symptoms, eye allergies, and other vision concerns. If you are experiencing ongoing eye irritation, scheduling a thorough optical test can determine the source and restore your comfort and eye health.