Issue 28.10
You’ve probably heard of cataracts before, but understanding the condition is another story, and pretty much everyone will need to deal with Cataracts at some point in their lifetime. By age 75, almost everyone has a cataract to some degree. Contrary to a common belief, a cataract is not a “film” over the eye. Rather it is a result of protein clusters that naturally develop within the crystalline lens inside your eye, causing a gradual hardening, clouding and thickening of that lens. Symptoms include visual blur or dimness, faded or dull colors, poor night vision, halos around lights, or sensitivity to bright light.
The good news is that cataracts are highly treatable, and involves a minor outpatient procedure which includes removing the clouded lens (the cataract) from within the eye and replacing it with an intraocular lens (IOL) which will last the rest of your life. Remarkably, the modern procedure isn’t an uncomfortable one, and patients recover quickly.
When does one need cataract surgery? Today, due to the safer tools and techniques available, doctors typically let you decide when to have surgery based on how the cataracts are affecting your life. Once you decide on surgery, you’ll also need to determine which kind of intraocular lens (IOL) is right for you. The IOL you choose will determine your vision for the rest of your life, so consider your options carefully. There is some great IOL technology available to us today, and a variety of resources are available to help you make this important decision, including advice and literature from your surgeon, as well as websites and online publications.
Results? With modern surgical technology and techniques, the day after cataract surgery, most patients find they can resume everyday activities like watching TV, reading, or light chores. Then after just a few days, you’ll likely be ready to take on a new world of enhanced vision. Colors may seem more vibrant, your vision clearer, more in focus – maybe for the first time in years.
Few people would call the diagnosis of cataracts a blessing. In some ways, though it truly can be a gift: Once you’ve put a name to the condition that’s been clouding your vision, you can finally begin the amazing process of restoring your sight.