cataracts can be a scary diagnosis, but thanks to modern medicine, we have ways of treating and completely reverting this disease. If you want to know more about this disease and treatment options, read on for some helpful information:
What are cataracts?
Cataracts are commonly linked to ageing, and they occur with a clouding in the eye lens. This eventually leads to vision loss and can happen in either one or both of the eyes. It is common in people aged 40 and over, but it can affect younger people, too. This disease can take on many forms, such as a nuclear cataract, which forms in the centre of the lens, or a subcapsular cataract, which forms at the back of the lens.
What are the symptoms of cataracts?
The first symptoms of cataracts are often very subtle and depend on the type of cataract a person has. Early symptoms usually include slightly blurred vision or slight oversensitivity to light such as a lamp or headlights of a car. These symptoms will eventually intensify and lead to other issues such as colours appearing dull, seeing halos or lines around lights, double vision and vision loss.
Are there ways to prevent cataracts?
There is inconclusive evidence that cataracts can be prevented. However, a diet rich in Vitamin E and carotenoids, as well as ensuring that your eyes are protected from the sun, is encouraged to help prevent this disease.
Are cataracts treatable?
The great news is that cataracts is completely reversible. If cataracts are seriously affecting a person's daily functions, an eye care professional may advise performing a cataract surgery. This can take as little as 20 minutes. This involves removing the cloudy eye lens and replacing it with an artificial lens. The person's vision usually starts to restore after a few hours of surgery.
What are the risks of cataract surgery?
Cataract surgery is one of the commonly performed and safest surgeries. However, there are always risks involved in any surgery. These risks involve infections, bleeding and the cataract not being completely removed. It is important that people follow through with proper surgery aftercare. This includes eye drops that should be used for a week after surgery, special post-op eye shields and more.
Cataracts are very common, but thanks to modern medicine, they can be completely reversed. If you think you are experiencing symptoms of cataracts, make sure you pay your eye care professional a visit.
For more information on cataract surgery, contact an eye doctor.
Share22 August 2019
I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes ten years ago. Since my diagnosis, I have been committed to learning how to modify my lifestyle and adopt healthy practices, such as daily exercise and eating wholefoods, that help control my diabetes and improve my quality of life. I started this blog to connect with others living with this condition and to share what I've learned on my personal journey to better health. I also update the blog with the latest research and news relating to type 2 diabetes. If you have a specific question that's not been addressed in a blog post, feel free to send me an email.
