Are you worried about changes in your eyesight? Have you noticed that your vision seems blurry or cloudy?
Do you have trouble seeing at night, and do lights seem too bright? Are you seeing double, and are colors starting to fade?
If you’re experiencing any of these changes in how you see your world, it’s likely you could have cataracts. Keep reading to learn more about the most common signs of cataracts!
What Are Cataracts?
A cataract is a clouding on the lens of your eye. The lens in your eye works a lot like a camera lens.
It lets light in on your retina so you can see clearly. It also helps your eye focus at different distances.
Over the years, the lens can get cloudy, changing how you see. When this happens, your vision can become affected.
It usually takes time for a cataract to develop. At first, you may not even notice any changes, but cataracts get larger.
Eventually, they will affect the qualify of your life. Over time, cataracts can cause your vision to become blurry, cloudy, or yellow.
They can also produce halos around lights at night. The best time to consider cataract surgery is if your quality of life is impacted.
Can Anyone Get Cataracts?
Cataracts often develop as a natural part of the aging process. Many people end up with cataracts.
Cataracts can also develop due to other causes and conditions. This can include lifestyle choices, as well as some medical conditions. Here are some of the medical conditions and reasons that can cause cataracts to develop:
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Being a heavy drinker
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
- Eye trauma
- Spending too much time in the sun
- Certain medications
- A history of cataracts in your family
Will I Have to Have Cataract Surgery?
Early on, cataracts may not affect your eyesight very much. At first, your doctor may suggest stronger lighting and eyeglasses.
Wearing sunglasses will help with light sensitivity. But over time, as your vision gets worse, the best option will be cataract surgery.
The good news is that cataract surgery is a common procedure. It is relatively painless, and the benefits outweigh any discomfort you might experience.
Can Cataracts Grow Back After Surgery?
A cataract can’t grow back after surgery. During surgery, your lens is replaced with an artificial lens called an IOL (intraocular lens). Sometimes a “secondary cataract” can develop.
This type of cataract is a clouding around the IOL. The doctor can remove it during a quick 15-minute procedure.
Can I Get Glaucoma from Having Cataracts?
Glaucoma doesn’t cause cataracts. It’s possible for someone with glaucoma to develop cataracts as they get older.
If you’re a glaucoma patient with cataracts, you’ll have an individual assessment to decide on the best treatment. Some patients with mild glaucoma who are receiving treatment may be candidates for cataract surgery.
Patients with advanced glaucoma may have glaucoma and cataract surgery at the same time.
Finding out if you have cataracts is an essential part of keeping your vision clear. Concerned that you may need cataract surgery?
Schedule your cataract screening at Stahl Eyecare Experts in Garden City, NY today! There’s no reason to keep living with cataracts any longer!
