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Free Laser Vision Screening
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A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye. It can be compared to a window that is frosted or "fogged" with defective glass. There are many misconceptions about cataract. It is:
Common symptoms of cataract include:
The amount and pattern of lens cloudiness can vary. If the cloudiness is not near the center of the lens, you may not be aware that a cataract is present. What causes cataract?The most common cataract type is related to aging of the eye. Other causes include:
How can a cataract be diagnosed?A thorough eye examination by your ophthalmologist (eye physician) can detect the extent of a cataract, as well as any other conditions that may be causing eye problems. Additionally, your ophthalmologist (eye M.D.) may diagnose other reasons for visual loss, particularly problems involving the retina or optic nerve. If any of these problems are present, 20/20 vision may not return after cataract extraction. If such conditions are severe, removal of the cataract may not result in any improvement in vision, and your ophthalmologist may recommend to not remove the cataract. Additionally, your ophthalmologist can tell you approximately how much visual improvement is likely. How fast does a cataract develop?The speed in which the cataract develops differs for different individuals, and may be
different even between the two eyes. Most cataracts associated with aging progress
gradually, over a period of years to decades. How is cataract treated?Surgery is the only way your ophthalmologist can remove your cataract. However, if symptoms from a cataract are mild, a change of glasses may be all that is needed for you to see better. There are no medicines, dietary supplements, exercises or eyeglasses that have been shown to completely prevent or cure cataracts. Protection from excessive sunlight may slow the progression of cataracts. Sunglasses that screen out ultraviolet (UV) light rays offer this protection. When should surgery be done?Cataract surgery should be considered when cataracts cause enough visual loss to
interfere with daily activities. What can I expect from cataract surgery?Over 1.4 million people have cataract surgery each year in the U.S., 95% without complications. During surgery, which is usually performed under local anesthesia as an outpatient procedure, the cloudy lens is removed from the eye and replaced with a clear plastic intraocular lens. Your ophthalmologist performs this delicate surgery using a microscope, miniature instruments and other modern technology. Although it is a common misconception, lasers are not used to remove cataracts. Ultrasound, however, is often used to dissolve the cataract. In approximately one-half of people having, cataract surgery, the natural capsule that supports the clear plastic lens implant will become cloudy. Laser surgery is used to open this cloudy capsule, usually restoring the clear vision. After cataract surgery, you may resume your activities almost immediately. You will have to take eyedrops to aid the eye's healing process. Several postoperative visits to your ophthalmologist are needed to check on the progress of the eye as it heals. Cataract surgery is a highly successful procedure. Improved vision can be expected in well over 90% of cases, unless there is a problem with the cornea, retina or optic nerve. It is important to understand that some complications can occur during or after the surgery, some severe enough to limit vision. As with any surgery, a good result cannot be guaranteed. ConclusionCataracts are a common cause of vision loss. Fortunately, they are very treatable. Your ophthalmologist can tell you whether cataract or some other problem is the cause for vision loss or eye discomfort, and can help you decide if cataract surgery is best for you. |
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