In this review, we primarily focus on surgical treatment for cataracts. We also discuss cataracts more broadly, focusing on why they develop and the signs and symptoms that patients often notice that lead to them seeking treatment.
Developing a cataract can be a scary experience. The good news is that surgery often provides reliable, long-term relief. Here is everything to know about cataract treatment and surgery to help patients decide the best path for dealing with their cataract(s) in the long term.
A cataract occurs when there is clouding in the clear part of the lens. This can develop slowly over the course of a year or more and primarily impacts adults over the age of 40. Cataracts develop due to proteins in the eye lens breaking down and clumping together. The signs may start small and then grow progressively worse if there is no treatment intervention. The most common signs of cataracts are:
Regular check-up visits with an optometrist are ideal for detecting cataracts as early as possible. Patients should also check for signs of sight complications and notify their optometrist if any concerns develop. For instance, many patients discover that they have a cataract by not being able to read the way that they used to and/or by needing to change their prescription eyeglasses.
Patients should seek treatment for cataracts as soon as possible, as they are not likely to improve on their own and may grow progressively worse. There is only one way to treat a cataract, which is via a surgical procedure to remove it.
However, in some cases, a management plan may be a better solution for the patient, depending on the severity of the cataract(s) and the patient's treatment preference. In particular, the management plan, rather than surgery, may be recommended if the cataract is not severe and the patient is not able or willing to go through a surgical procedure.
The recommended treatment depends on the severity of the cataract(s) and the patient's preference. Previous treatment history and genetic information may also play a role in determining the best course of action.
Surgery is the only effective cataract treatment. For minor cataracts that do not seem to worsen, a change to prescription glasses may serve as a temporary treatment. However, this does not cure the cataract. Therefore, to ensure long-term relief of the cataract and to avoid it worsening, surgery is typically recommended by optometry professionals.
Cataract surgery involves a tiny incision being made in the eye to remove the cataract and replace the cloudy lens with a clear plastic one. Patients typically do not feel any discomfort during the procedure. The surgeon provides an anesthetic to help the patient relax and to numb the area. Overall, it is a minimally invasive procedure that usually takes less than an hour to complete.
There are certain risks associated with cataract surgery (as is the case with all surgical procedures). The most common long-term complication is posterior capsular opacification (PCO). This is also referred to as a "second cataract" and occurs in approximately 20% of patients. Fortunately, PCO is easily resolved with a laser procedure in most cases. Patients can expect certain side effects after having cataract surgery, including the following:
The side effects should go away within a few days. In rare cases, infections can develop. The eye doctor should provide a list of post-care instructions to help control eye inflammation and discomfort. A follow-up visit is also usually scheduled to further ensure that no complications result from the procedure.
A consultation visit with a licensed optometrist is the best way to determine if cataract surgery (or another form of cataract treatment) is right for you. Here at our office, we provide diagnostic services and can help you put together a treatment plan based on the severity of your cataract. Please do contact us today in order to receive more information and to schedule a visit.
Get more information here: https://www.texasoptical.net or call Texas Optical at (214) 771-7333
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Many people overlook professional eye care until they begin having sight issues. However, the eyes can often be seen as a window into the body's overall health. Therefore, regular eye exams go far beyond determining whether you need glasses or contacts. They are essential for preserving your health and often provide early detection of other…
While eye health is a key aspect of general health, people may not know the most effective ways to care for their eyes and vision properly. Fortunately, optometry helps patients preserve their overall eye health with vision correction and routine eye examinations. If you are wondering what else you can do to help keep your…
Put plainly, cataracts are cloudy areas on the lens of the eye. An optometrist is necessary for cataract treatment as the condition seldom goes away on its own. However, the earlier cataracts are detected, the better treatment success odds are. Let us look closer at the condition and the treatments we offer.The eyes' lens is…
Blurry vision can interfere with the life that you want to live. It can make you less able to engage with your surroundings and may even limit your ability to do daily tasks, such as driving. However, by searching the internet for "optometrist near me", you can find a professional to help resolve your blurry…
Many people overlook professional eye care until they begin having sight issues.
Prioritizing your eye health can help protect and preserve your vision for years to come.
The only known cataract treatment is through surgery.
Patients require regular vision testing to keep their eyes healthy.
If blurry vision is interfering with how you want to live your life, you do…
Since a contact fits directly onto the eye’s surface, it is crucial to determine what…
