Home » Blog » Have You Been Diagnosed With Cataracts?

Posted by: Scott and Christie Eyecare Associates in Eye Health

If you, a family member, or a friend have been diagnosed with cataracts by an eye doctor, please know you are not alone. According to the National Eye Institute, cataracts are a common condition affecting over 24.4 million Americans aged 40 and above. We want to assure you that we are here to offer you the best possible support for your cataract diagnosis. To help you manage this condition, the American Academy of Ophthalmology has provided a few recommendations that you may find helpful.

Here are some guidelines to help maintain clear vision and avoid complications:

• Schedule your eye exam every year if you’re older than 65 or every two years if you are younger.
• Wear sunglasses that protect your eyes and a hat that blocks at least 99 percent of UV light.
• If you smoke, it is time to quit. Smoking is a key risk factor for cataracts.
• Use brighter lights for reading and other activities. A magnifying glass may be helpful to use.
• Limit your driving at night once night vision, halos, or glare can affect driving safety.
• Talk with your primary doctor about other health problems, especially diabetes.
• When it becomes challenging to complete your regular activities, consider cataract surgery.

Make an informed decision about cataract surgery. Discuss the following topics with your eye doctor:

• What is the preparation process for recovery after cataract surgery?
• What are the benefits and possible complications of cataract surgery?
• What are the cataract surgery costs?

Cataract Treatment

Cataracts can only be removed through surgery. If you have cataract symptoms but they are not causing you any discomfort, it is best to consult with your eye doctor to determine the ideal time to remove the cataract. Your eye doctor can provide you with options that will suit your needs.

What Happens During Cataract Surgery?

During cataract surgery, your eye surgeon will remove your eye’s cloudy natural lens. Then, your eye surgeon will replace it with an artificial lens. This new lens, called an intraocular lens (or IOL), is a small, clear disc made of plastic, silicone, or acrylic. It is placed in your eye to help you see clearly. When you decide to have cataract surgery, your doctor will educate you about IOLs and how they work.

Cataracts can lead to vision loss, but the good news is that they can be treated. You don’t have to suffer when this diagnosis can be easily reversed. Consult with your eye doctor about your cataract symptoms, and together, you can decide whether cataract surgery is right for you. Remember, we’re here to support you and answer any questions you may have as you learn about cataracts and make the best decision for yourself. We’re in this together!

We LOVE our Patients, and THANK YOU for being part of our practice family!

References: American Academy of Ophthalmology and American Optometric Association. This blog provides information and discussion about eye health and related subjects. The content provided in this blog and any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, they should consult with an appropriately licensed physician.

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