A cataract is among the leading eye problems in the United States. Currently, it affects over 24.4 million Americans aged 40 and above. Normally, the lens of your eye is clear. However, if you have a cataract, the lens is clouded, making it difficult to read, drive at night, or see expressions on one's face. However, the problem can be corrected through cataract surgery.
How Do You Know if You Have a Cataract?
Mostly, cataracts develop gradually and don't affect your eyesight. Thus, you only notice that you have the condition when it interferes with your vision. Some of the symptoms to watch include:
- Clouded or blurred vision
- Double vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Difficulty with vision, especially at night
- Inability to read
Treatment for Cataracts
Before recommending any treatment, the optometrist has to determine if you have a cataract. The following vital tests and exams may be conducted:
- Visual Acuity Test: It tests your reading capabilities.
- Retinal Exam: The doctor examines your retina using a slit lamp for signs of a cataract.
- Slit Lamp Examination: The doctor uses the slit lamp to examine the iris, cornea, and lens for tiny abnormalities.
If the cataract is mild, the optometrist may prescribe strong eyeglasses. You may also be advised to increase lighting when reading. However, if the cataract significantly impairs vision, you might need cataract surgery.
What is a Cataract Surgery?
Surgery is the most effective treatment when cataracts interfere with your ability to perform everyday activities. However, you need to talk to an optometrist who will examine you and decide if surgery is right for you.
During cataract surgery, the optometrist removes the clouded lens and replaces it with an artificial one. The artificial lens, commonly known as an intraocular lens, is placed in the same position as the natural lens and remains a permanent part of the eye.
The surgery is highly successful, and you don't have to worry about complications. Once the procedure is complete, your vision is restored. However, you may not get the artificial lens if you have certain medical conditions. In such a case, the cataract is removed, but vision is corrected with contact lenses or eyeglasses.
Here are other reasons why surgery is the most preferred treatment for cataracts:
- It is an outpatient procedure, and you don't have to fear hospital admission.
- It is painless since the doctor uses a local anesthetic to numb the eye.
- The surgery is safe
Conclusion
Cataract surgery significantly improves your vision and quality of life. It also decreases the risk of driving-related accidents and falls. If you have cataract-like symptoms, you should visit an optometrist for a detailed examination.
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