Cataracts
Medically reviewed by Dr. Austin Andersen, M.D. · Updated March 2026
A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens inside your eye that causes blurred vision, glare sensitivity, and faded colors. Cataracts are the most common cause of vision loss worldwide and typically develop gradually after age 55. The only permanent treatment is cataract surgery, which replaces the clouded lens with a clear artificial one — it is one of the safest and most commonly performed surgeries in the United States.
What Is Cataracts?
Cataracts occur when the natural lens inside your eye becomes cloudy, causing blurred vision and increased glare sensitivity. At Professional Eyecare in Overland Park, we monitor cataract progression and provide full surgical co-management in partnership with experienced Kansas City-area ophthalmologic surgeons.
What Are the Symptoms of Cataracts?
- Gradually increasing blurry or hazy vision
- Increased sensitivity to glare and bright lights
- Halos around headlights and streetlights at night
- Yellowing or fading of colors
- Frequent changes in glasses or contact lens prescription
- Difficulty reading in low-light conditions
- Double vision in one eye
What Causes Cataracts?
- Normal aging — most cataracts develop after age 55
- Prolonged ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure
- Diabetes and metabolic disorders
- Previous eye injury or intraocular surgery
- Long-term use of corticosteroid medications
- Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
- Family history of early cataract development
How Is Cataracts Treated?
- Regular monitoring with slit-lamp examination
- Updated prescription lenses for early-stage cataracts
- Anti-glare coatings and tinted lenses for comfort
- Pre-operative evaluation and surgical candidacy assessment
- Referral to trusted Kansas City cataract surgeons
- Post-operative care and follow-up management
- Intraocular lens (IOL) selection counseling
When Should You See an Eye Doctor for Cataracts?
Schedule an appointment if you notice your vision becoming increasingly hazy, colors looking dull, or driving at night becoming more difficult due to glare. While cataracts develop slowly, timely evaluation allows us to recommend surgery at the right stage. Our co-management approach ensures a seamless experience from diagnosis through recovery.
Serving Overland Park & the Kansas City Metro
Two locations providing convenient eye care for patients across Johnson County and nearby communities.
Schedule Your Eye Exam
Early detection and ongoing management are essential for protecting your vision. Contact us to book your appointment today.