More than half a million Australians are affected by cataracts, but this eye disorder does not always have to spell doom and gloom. Whether you are affected by cataracts yourself, or it has been diagnosed in a loved one, this is the place to learn more about cataracts to raise awareness about this issue. From the reason for cataracts to treatment options, there is plenty to read up on here. A cataract diagnosis is not an automatic blindness diagnosis, so take the time to educate yourself about this medical problem so that any diagnosis is met head-on with positivity and optimism.
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If you have been to see your optometrist and he or she has informed you that you have cataracts, you might have some questions. Here are some of these questions and their answers:
What Are Cataracts?
One of the components that make up your eye is a lens. The lens is responsible for focusing light rays onto the retina, which is at the back of your eye. That is where the image of what you are looking at is formed and what gives you sight.
Cataracts are a kind of cloudy or whitish substance that forms on your lens and makes it difficult for light rays to pass through or get focused onto your retina. This means that you might have blurry vision and increased glare from lights.
Cataracts mostly form on your eye's lens as a result of aging. They start minor but can eventually become advanced, leading to blindness.
What Is the Cure for Cataracts?
If you develop cataracts, you might start noticing double or blurry vision, which can make it difficult to carry out daily activities requiring your sight. For example, reading, watching television, driving and so on.
You should visit your optometrist when you start having such symptoms for a check-up. It is important to know that there is no pill or injection to cure cataracts; you can only slow its progression down by getting prescription glasses or making some lifestyle changes that are closely monitored by your optometrist or ophthalmologist.
Cataract surgery is the only known solution for treating cataracts. It involves removing the natural lens from your eye and placing an artificial lens in its place. Cataract surgery is performed when cataracts have severely advanced and you can barely see; however, you can have it done sooner.
Considering age, cataracts usually become worse around your sixties, but it also depends on how well you are taking care of yourself and what steps you are taking to slow the progression of cataracts.
How Is Cataract Surgery Done?
Your cataract surgeon usually conducts different tests before surgery to ensure that you are healthy enough to handle the surgery and to get an accurate image of your eye and the eye lens.
Expect your eyes to be numbed with anaesthesia; you may also be given a sedative to relax you because you may be awake through the process. It might seem scary, but because your eye is numbed, you won't feel a thing aside from some slight discomfort. The process usually takes at least an hour and you can go home the same day.
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