Cataracts are a common eye condition that affects millions of people over the age of 40. If left untreated, cataracts can lead to a reduction in vision and blindness. The expert eye care at Advanced Optical in Virginia, MN, can help you preserve your vision. Below is some general information about cataracts and the type of treatment you may need if it affects your quality of life.
What Does It Mean to Have Cataracts?
With cataracts, cloudiness forms in the lens of the eye. At first, you may not notice any symptoms because the cataract is only affecting a small part of the lens. As the condition progresses, you may experience blurred or dim vision, be sensitive to light, see fading colors, need a frequent change of prescription, or have trouble driving at night.
Long-term use of steroid medication, eye surgery, genetic disorders, tissue injury, and age are well-known factors for causing cataracts. But other causes can put you at risk for developing this condition, such as:
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Smoking
- Hormone replacement therapy
- Severe nearsightedness
- Obesity
- Extreme exposure to sunlight
Cataract Lens Replacement Surgery
In the early stages of cataracts, your eye doctor may suggest corrective lenses, such as eyeglasses or contacts, to help improve your vision. If you are unavailable to perform daily tasks, we may refer you to an eye surgeon for cataract surgery.
Your optometrist will first determine if you are a good candidate for this type of surgery by performing a few routine exams. If your eye doctor decides that cataract surgery is right for you, we will co-manage the procedure with your ophthalmologist.
Cataract surgery is a procedure that replaces your cloudy lens with a clear plastic lens. During your surgery, a small slit is made in your eye, your lens is broken up and taken out, and a new artificial lens is placed in the eye.
An Optometry Evaluation Can Determine a Cataract Diagnosis
You can trust our eye care services from our optometry professionals at Advanced Optical in Virginia, MN, WI, to preserve your sight. Our optometrists are dedicated to diagnosing conditions at the early stages before they can affect your health. Make an appointment with us today by calling (218) 741-3000 and receive the professional and personal attention you deserve.
