WHAT IS A CATARACT? SIGNS, SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT OPTIONS
As the most common cause of blindness, cataracts are a serious eye health issue. Cataract symptoms can develop slowly over time or suddenly come on. They are caused by aging changes in the clear lens inside your eyes, and it’s important to take action early if you suspect you have them. Here is what you need to know about cataracts:
1. What is a Cataract
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens. It can make it difficult to see and may eventually lead to blindness. Cataracts are usually caused by aging or injury; they can also be hereditary or congenital.
2. Signs, Symptoms
Symptoms include difficulty concentrating, blurry vision when reading, night-blindness, and glare from light sources such as headlights at nighttime. A cataract has no symptoms in its early stages but progresses slowly over time until treatment is necessary.
3. Prevention Strategies
The American Academy of Ophthalmology suggests preventive measures include eating a healthy diet, not smoking, and wearing sunglasses that block UV rays.
4. Risk Factors of Cataracts
Increasing age
Diabetes
Excessive exposure to sunlight
Smoking
Obesity
High blood pressure
Previous eye injury or inflammation
Previous eye surgery
5. Complications Associated with Cataracts
Posterior Capsule Rupture/Vitreous loss. Due to the nature of cataract surgery, posterior capsule tears may occur at any point during the operation.
Cystoid Macular Edema
Endophthalmitis
Vitreous/Suprachoroidal Hemorrhage
Retinal Tears/Detachment
Lens Dislocation
6. Surgery for Cataracts
Cataract surgery is performed by an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) on an outpatient basis so that patients don’t need to stay in hospital after surgery. The cataract removal process usually takes between 10-30 minutes, depending on its type. In general terms, there are two types: simple cataracts, which can be fixed with minimal health risks; however, complicated cases would require extended observation time.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, we recommend seeing a doctor for treatment. At Advanced Laser & Cataract Center of Oklahoma, we offer the latest and most advanced technology available to diagnose and treat cataracts quickly and safely. Dr. Belardo has been performing cataract surgery in the Oklahoma City area for over thirty years and is considered one of the pioneers of Cataract Surgery in Oklahoma. He was the first doctor in OKC to perform no-stitch, no shot, no patch cataract surgery back in 1991.
If you’re considering a lens replacement or an advanced eye care treatment like Intacs or Glaucoma treatments, we invite you to contact us at (405) 755-7700.
