Cataracts are dense and cloudy areas that may form in your eye lens. Cataracts often appear when eye proteins form clumps that prevent your lens from projecting clear images on the retina. The retina is responsible for converting the light from the lens into coherent signals that allow us to see clearly.
Though they develop gradually, cataracts can disrupt normal eye vision significantly. While you may experience cataracts in both eyes, they don't manifest simultaneously. The condition is prevalent in older people, and at least half of Americans undergo cataract surgery by the time they're 80 years. Continue reading to learn more about cataracts and how they can be treated:
Common Causes and Symptoms
Cataracts may take several years to develop. This visual condition can jeopardize normal vision, especially under low ambient light conditions. And since it develops slowly, you may not notice the issue until it worsens.
Anyone can experience cataracts, and age tends to be the biggest risk factor. However, other issues like family history, eye injury, inflammation, and diabetes may also increase the risk of developing cataracts.
People with cataracts can experience several symptoms, including:
- Cloudy and blurry vision
- Poor vision under low and bright light conditions
- Reading difficulties
- Trouble seeing clearly even with glasses or contacts
Diagnosis and Treatment
In order to diagnose cataracts, an eye doctor must perform a comprehensive suite of eye exams to assess your overall vision and check if you have cataracts. This may include tonometry to determine eye pressure and chart tests to check your vision.
Tonometry tests are painless procedures that apply a puff of air to the cornea to test your eye pressure. Additionally, the doctor may use eye drops to enlarge your pupils, making it easier to examine the optic nerve and retina for any signs of damage. The doctor may also check your eye perception of colors and sensitivity to glare. If it's determined that you have cataracts, your doctor will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan.
Surgery is often the most recommended solution when cataracts affect your daily activities like driving or reading. It may also be a necessary procedure when cataracts hinder the treatment of other eye problems.
Some common surgical methods include phacoemulsification and extracapsular surgery. Phacoemulsification uses ultrasound waves to disintegrate the lens and remove cataracts. On the other hand, extracapsular surgery removes the cloudy parts through an incision on the cornea. After the surgical procedure, the doctor replaces the natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens.
Surgery is a reliable and safe remedy for cataracts and has a high success rate. While some risks include bleeding, infection, and retinal detachment, the incidents are very rare. In fact, most people return home immediately after the surgery.
If you are not interested in surgery, the doctor may assist you in managing the symptoms. They can recommend magnifying lenses, stronger eyeglasses, and antiglare sunglasses.
Receive Reliable Cataract Treatment
A cataract is a serious eye problem that needs medical attention, and early detection helps you quickly return to your normal life. At Atlantic Eye Consultants, we treat various eye conditions to help you enhance your quality of life. If you suspect you have cataracts, visit our doctor and have your eyes examined. Reach out today for a consultation about cataracts and other eye problems.