Does your vision seem hazier than it used to be? It is possible that you are experiencing one of the symptoms of an eye condition called cataracts, which may require that you undergo surgery so it can be treated. Find out in this article what you should know about cataracts and the price for the surgical procedure.

What Are Cataracts?

A cataract is an eye condition that occurs when the lens in one or both of your eyes is unable to function fully due to a protein problem. Basically, the lens is used for helping light reach the retina, which is how you are able to see things without blurriness. What happens with a cataract is the clumping up of protein in the lens. When the protein clumps together, it creates a cloudy appearance on the lens that causes you to experience hazy vision. Your eyesight will become worse the longer that you neglect to visit a specialist for treatment.

How Does Someone Get Cataracts?

One of the common reasons people develop cataracts is from aging. Cataracts can also appear from health conditions such as being overweight, high blood pressure and diabetes. If you are generally in good shape, it is possible that cataracts may have developed as a result of your eyes being exposed to a high level of ultraviolet radiation or an inflammation. The condition can also occur from smoking or drinking on a regular basis.

How Can a Specialist Treat Cataracts?

Treating cataracts will depend on how severe they are. If your lens is only affecting your vision a little, you may only need to start wearing eyeglasses. Using bifocals might also help you cope when cataracts are not severe. If there is a lot of cloudiness on your lens, surgery will be necessary. Basically, the eye surgeon will have to remove the lens and put a plastic intraocular lens in its place. You should begin seeing better and having normal looking eyes after surgery.

What Does Cataract Surgery Cost?

The price for cataract surgery depends on if both eyes are affected and if you have insurance or not. You should expect surgery to be priced at a minimum of $5,000 and up per eye (without insurance). The surgical procedure can cost you as little as $1,000 per eye with insurance coverage. Make an appointment with an eye specialist, such as Coastal Eye Care, if you suspect that you have issues with cataracts.