June is Cataract Awareness Month
The month of June is Cataract Awareness Month. Many patients have heard of cataracts but may be unfamiliar with what they entail and how they impact your vision. Others may be unaware of what puts them at risk of developing cataracts. Today, we’ll talk about cataracts and what to expect if they develop.
What are cataracts?
Cataracts are a condition that impacts one’s vision. A cataract causes the lens of the eye to become cloudy or opaque, which in turn can result in blurred or lost vision. This is because the cataract keeps light from passing through the eye, to the retina, where images are then sent to the brain. Most patients will find that this cloudiness can affect one’s ability to see properly. It can impact the ability to recognize faces, read books, and drive a car.
What are the signs of cataracts?
The most common signs and symptoms of cataracts include:
- Blurring of vision
- Distortion of vision
- Appearance of a film over the eye
- Dulling of colors
- Light sensitivity
- Increased glare at night
- Worsened vision even with corrective lenses
How are cataracts spotted?
Patients who notice any changes to their vision over time will want to be evaluated by a trained professional to determine if cataracts have developed. Once a proper diagnosis has been made, patients can then work with their professional to consider treatment options.
What can I do about cataracts?
Cataracts in the earlier stages may not require much in terms of treatment. The doctor may recommend certain lifestyle changes and vision aids to keep the condition from interfering with one’s day-to-day activities. This may include stronger magnification, new eyeglasses, or changes in appropriate lighting during usual tasks. However, if the condition greatly impacts one’s quality of life and their vision, it may be time to speak to a doctor about cataract surgery. This procedure is successful in helping patients restore their vision, and can remove cloudiness by replacing the clouded lens with a special IOL (intraocular lens).
Schedule an appointment today!
Cincinnati Eye Institute has 11 convenient locations throughout the area of Cincinnati, Ohio, and we encourage you to book an appointment at any one of them! Call (800) 544-5133 and request a visit at one of our locations close to you!