Cataracts occur when the eye’s clear lens becomes clouded. They are a common cause of vision loss, especially as people age. However, cataracts are treatable. If you are worried you may be suffering from a cataract, you likely have many questions that need answering. At New Century Ophthalmology, we have been providing residents of Oxford and Raleigh, NC with reliable eye care services for many years including the diagnosis and treatment of cataracts. Following are the answers to questions our ophthalmologist frequently receives regarding cataracts.
What Are the Treatment Options for Cataracts?
If cataracts have started taking a toll on your daily life and vision, surgery will typically be recommended. Cataract surgery is performed on an outpatient basis in an operating room. Our doctor will perform the surgery by taking out the natural lens of your eye and replacing it with an intraocular lens implant.
Is It Possible for Cataracts to Develop Again Following Surgery?
Cataracts will not have the chance to develop again once the eye’s natural lens is removed and replaced. However, the development of scar tissue can occur around the intraocular lens resulting in your vision becoming blurry or cloudy. Scar tissue can be removed with a laser.
Will I Need to Wear Glasses after Cataract Surgery?
This varies from person to person since everyone’s situation is unique. Some patients will only need to wear reading glasses while others will need a mild prescription to be able to see at a distance in addition to reading glasses following cataract surgery.
What Causes Cataracts?
While it is not known for sure what causes cataracts, certain things can put a person at risk for developing cataracts including:
- Spending too much time in the sun
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Steroid use
- Using major tranquilizers
- Use of diuretics
What Are the Common Symptoms of Cataracts?
Each person’s symptoms of cataracts may vary but some of the most common symptoms include:
- Blurry or cloudy vision
- Sensitivity to light and glare
- Halos around light sources
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Colors appearing faded
- Double vision
- Distorted vision in either eye
- Increased nearsightedness
How are Cataracts Diagnosed?
To diagnose cataracts, our eye doctor will perform a visual acuity test to measure your vision abilities at a distance as well as a pupil dilation test. These tests will be performed in addition to an assessment of your medical history and an eye exam.
Eye Care Services in Oxford and Raleigh, NC
For more information on cataracts or to schedule an appointment with our ophthalmologist, call New Century Ophthalmology today or request an appointment online.