Clear vision is essential for independence, safety, and quality of life. As people age, many develop cataracts, a condition where the lens of the eye becomes cloudy and blurs vision. While cataracts are common, they can interfere with reading, driving, and daily activities if left untreated. At Vista Medical Center, providers help seniors detect cataracts early and connect them with the care needed to preserve their vision.
Under the direction of Dr. Haroon Rashid, Vista Medical Center provides complete geriatric services at three Northern Virginia locations — Crystal City, North Arlington, and Annandale. With extended hours and patient-centered care, our team makes vision health a key part of senior wellness.
What Are Cataracts?
A cataract forms when proteins in the lens of the eye clump together, causing the lens to become cloudy. This cloudiness makes it difficult for light to pass through, resulting in blurry or dim vision. Cataracts usually develop gradually, affecting one or both eyes.
Symptoms of Cataracts
Cataracts can make everyday activities more challenging. Common signs include:
- Blurry, cloudy, or dim vision
- Increased sensitivity to light and glare
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Fading or yellowing of colors
- Double vision in one eye
- Needing frequent changes in glasses or contact lens prescriptions
If these symptoms interfere with daily life, it’s important to get evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Causes and Risk Factors
Cataracts often develop as a natural part of aging, but several factors can increase risk:
- Age over 60
- Family history of cataracts
- Long-term sun exposure without eye protection
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Previous eye injury or surgery
- Use of certain medications such as steroids
Understanding these risk factors allows patients and providers to take preventive steps when possible.
Diagnosing Cataracts
At Vista Medical Center, cataracts may be detected through routine eye screenings or when patients report vision changes. A complete eye exam by an ophthalmologist is usually recommended for confirmation. Early diagnosis ensures that treatment can be planned before vision loss becomes severe.
Treatment for Cataracts
In the early stages, cataracts may be managed with:
- New glasses or contact prescriptions
- Brighter lighting for reading and activities
- Anti-glare sunglasses to reduce sensitivity
As cataracts progress, surgery may be recommended to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with a clear artificial lens. Cataract surgery is one of the most common and successful procedures performed worldwide.
Why Choose Vista Medical Center for Cataract Evaluation?
Vista Medical Center provides seniors with trusted care for vision health by offering:
- Comprehensive, Personalized Medical Care – Cataract detection and management integrated with other geriatric services.
- Convenient Access & Extended Hours – Open daily from 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM in Crystal City, North Arlington, and Annandale.
- Experienced Providers – Led by Dr. Haroon Rashid, with expertise in preventive and senior-focused healthcare.
- Collaborative Care – Referrals to eye specialists when advanced treatment, such as surgery, is needed.
Vista’s team ensures patients and families receive guidance and support every step of the way.
Protect Your Vision and Independence
Cataracts don’t have to limit your quality of life. Vista Medical Center provides compassionate care to detect cataracts early and coordinate treatment when needed. With three Northern Virginia locations, support for your vision health is always nearby. For more information, contact Crystal City (703) 558-4922, North Arlington (703) 300-9179, Annandale (703) 256-7200.
