Don’t let cataracts steal your vision
If you’ve ever found yourself questioning the accuracy of the weather forecast because instead of clear skies, you see a cloudy horizon, then it might be time to talk with an ophthalmologist.
Amber Kunselman, surgical coordinator for ophthalmologist Dr. Parag Perekh of Laurel Eye Clinic, says cloudy vision is the number one symptom of cataracts.
“Cataracts are part of the natural aging process of the (eye) lens,” Kunselman says. “Sooner or later, everyone develops them.”
Besides cloudy vision, people with cataracts may experience blurry vision, a glare or halo effect around headlights or lamps, and poor night vision or double vision.
According to the National Eye Institute, by age 80, more than half of all Americans either have cataracts or have had cataracts surgery. However, cataracts are not necessarily limited to senior citizens. People in their 40s and 50s can develop an age-related cataract, but it will probably be small and won’t affect their vision much. About 70% of Perekh’s Brookville, Pa., practice is made up of patients seeking treatment for cataracts.
What are Cataracts?
The lens of the eye comprises mostly water and protein, which is precisely arranged to keep the lens clear and allow light to pass through. With aging, some of the protein may clump together, forming a cloud over a small area of the lens—this is a cataract. As the cataract grows larger, it becomes increasingly harder to see well.
Along with age-related cataracts are those caused by diabetes or lifestyle choices, like smoking and alcohol use. Environmental factors, including prolonged exposure to sunlight without protective eyewear and, in rare cases, head trauma or a blow to the eye may result in a cataract.
Surgical Solution
Surgery, although it may not be immediately indicated, is the best permanent solution for cataracts, Kunselman says. Cataracts can develop gradually and in the early stage may be merely annoying. However, the larger they grow, the more they can interfere with a person’s ability to read, watch television and drive safely.
Not that long ago, cataract surgery meant an hour or more spent in the operating room, incisions, sutures and a three-day hospital stay. Today, most patients remain wide awake throughout the procedure, which takes 20 to 30 minutes. Afterward, they can expect a minimal amount of discomfort and usually return to their daily routine within a day or so.
The surgeon begins by removing the affected lens, which can restore about one-third of a patient’s visual acuity and function, Kunselman says.
Next comes the placement of an artificial intraocular (in the eye) lens, and here’s where things get interesting. Perekh offers patients a variety of options to customize their vision after cataract surgery. Depending upon the shape of their cornea or astigmatism, patients may choose to have their vision corrected to lessen their dependence on eyeglasses or to improve their vision at greater distances.
“Some patients opt for what we refer to as the ‘distance and near’ option, which allows them to give up eyeglasses totally,” Kunselman says.
Reduce Your Risk
Ophthalmologists advise protecting your eyes from ultraviolet sunlight with sunglasses or a hat with a brim to help delay the onset of cataracts. Research also shows that a diet rich in green leafy vegetables, fruit and other antioxidant foods help to reduce the risk of age-related cataracts.