Cataracts are a common eye condition that affects millions of people worldwide. As we age, the lenses of our eyes may become cloudy, leading to blurred vision and limiting our daily activities. While cataracts are common, they are also treatable. Here are the top five things you should know about cataracts to better understand this condition and how to manage it.
1. What Are Cataracts?
Cataracts are a natural part of the aging process and occur when the proteins in the eye’s lens start to clump together, causing cloudiness. This clouding can progress slowly over time, leading to vision problems. Common symptoms include blurred vision, increased sensitivity to glare, difficulty seeing at night, and a faded perception of colors. Cataracts can affect one or both eyes and are generally painless.
Common Symptoms of Cataracts:
- Blurred or hazy vision
- Increased sensitivity to glare, especially
- Trouble seeing well in low light
- Faded or yellowed colors
- Halos around lights
2. Risk Factors For Cataracts
While aging is the primary risk factor for developing cataracts, other factors can increase your risk including prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, smoking, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and a family history of cataracts. To help reduce your risk, take preventive measures, such as wearing sunglasses that block UV rays and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
- Prolonged exposure to UV sunlight
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
3. The Importance of Regular Eye Exams
Routine eye check-ups are important for detecting cataracts early and monitoring their progression. Your eye doctor can perform a comprehensive eye exam to check for cataracts, and if you have them, determine how severe they are. Early detection lets you start treatment earlier to help preserve your vision.
4. Non-Surgical and Surgical Treatments
In the early stages, cataracts may be managed through non-surgical methods, such as prescription glasses or contact lenses. However, when cataracts begin to significantly impair vision, surgery is the most effective treatment option. Traditional cataract surgery is a common and safe procedure that involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Laser cataract surgery offers even more precise and customizable cataract removal. Both procedures are safe, effective, and generally painless. They are performed on an outpatient basis and have a high success rate in restoring clear vision.
5. Recovery and Post-Operative Care
After cataract surgery, most patients experience improved vision within a few days, but full recovery may take several weeks. It’s essential to follow your doctor’s post-operative care instructions, which may include using prescribed eye drops, avoiding strenuous activities, and wearing protective eyewear. Regular follow-up appointments with your eye doctor are important for monitoring progress and addressing any concerns.
Cataracts are a common eye condition that can significantly impact one’s quality of life. However, with early detection and proper management and treatment, you can regain clear vision and enjoy your favorite activities again.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cataracts
What age do cataracts usually start?
Cataracts typically begin forming after age 60, but they develop earlier depending on risk factors.
Is cataract surgery painful?
No. Cataract surgery is usually painless. It’s performed using twilight anesthesia, and patients are awake but comfortable throughout the procedure.
How long does cataract surgery take?
Most cataract procedures take less than 15 minutes per eye, although you’ll need to be at the center for a few hours total.
Can cataracts come back after surgery?
The cataract itself doesn’t return, but some patients may develop a condition called posterior capsule opacification (PCO), which is easily treated with a quick laser procedure.
Come See Us!
If you’re concerned you may have cataracts or are interested in learning more about cataract surgery, schedule an appointment with our expert eye doctors today.
Tyson Eye is regarded as one of the premier eye care centers in Southwest Florida. Our surgeons and doctors have helped thousands of people enjoy better vision and have consistently introduced break-through technology, such as our bladeless laser cataract surgery, to the area. We are committed to excellence by delivering modern technology with old fashioned concern.
We’re here to help you see better! Call us at 239-542-2020 today or request an appointment.
