Cataracts FAQs
Cataracts are a leading cause of vision loss and blindness among older adults. While cataracts may appear to be a severe medical problem, this condition is relatively simple to treat. Trusted LASIK Surgeons offers a Cataract and LASIK Surgeon Directory to help you get the eye care necessary to achieve visual clarity again. We are here to answer your frequently asked questions about cataracts and how an eye surgeon from our Cataract and LASIK Surgeon Directory can treat them.
What is a cataract?
A cataract is a gradual blurring or clouding of the eye lens caused by proteins and fibers within the lens to break down and clump together. Once formed, the cataract interferes with the brain’s ability to process light and visual signals from the eyes. Cataracts often do not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages before causing significant vision loss once they become advanced. People with cataracts may experience double or blurred vision, light sensitivity, and difficulty seeing at night.
Who is most at risk of developing cataracts?
The most frequent cause of cataracts is age. The proteins within our eye lenses break down as we age, leading to blurry or cloudy vision. You are also at risk of developing cataracts if you receive excessive exposure to UV light. Spending prolonged periods outside without proper eye protection from sunglasses can increase your chance of forming cataracts later in life. Other factors that influence your risk of developing cataracts include having a family history of this condition, smoking, having a medical condition like diabetes or high blood pressure, and long-term use of some medications.
How can you prevent cataracts?
While preventative care cannot guarantee you do not develop cataracts later in life, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. You can promote eye health by maintaining a healthy diet rich in antioxidants from fruits, vegetables, and leafy greens. Wearing sunglasses while outside helps reduce UV light exposure. Managing chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure lowers your risk of developing cataracts. Regular eye exams from your eye doctor can catch and monitor cataracts early on before they lead to significant vision loss.
How are cataracts treated?
Cataract surgery is the only treatment available to remove a cataract. This procedure involves removing the lens that contains the cataract and replacing it with an artificial one that functions like the original. Cataract surgery is a safe and routine outpatient procedure that causes minimal discomfort and risk of side effects. Many people experience significant improvement in their vision shortly after this procedure. You will likely need protective eyewear and use prescribed eye drops to aid recovery for a short time after surgery. Most people can resume daily activities within a few days after cataract surgery.
Use Our Cataract and LASIK Surgeon Directory to Find Eye Care You Can Trust
Cataracts can significantly impact your quality of life and lead to blindness if left untreated, so find an eye surgeon you can trust with the Cataract and LASIK Surgeon Directory from Trusted LASIK Surgeons today. Get the eye care you need to achieve vivid and comfortable vision again at https://trustedlasiksurgeons.com/find-a-cataract-surgeon.html.