How to Protect Your Vision: Cataract Surgery Saves Eyes and Lives

According to a recent article from AARP, getting treatment for cataracts, a common eye disorder for people 40 and older, not only has the potential to repair your vision; it could possibly increase your lifespan by improving overall health.

Learn how to protect your vision, cataract surgery can save eyes and lives

Cataracts will affect almost everyone eventually. By 2050, the projected number of people in the U.S. with cataract is expected to double from 24.4 million to about 50 million (NEI).

So what can you do to protect your vision?

• Pay attention to changes in your vision
  Cataracts occur when the lens inside the eye gets cloudy and thick. Changes in vision resulting from cataract development can range from very subtle to extreme. Increased glare, trouble with night driving and difficulty reading are the most common symptoms.
• Schedule regular appointments with your eye doctor
  The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that you get a baseline eye examination at age 40, the time when early signs of disease or changes in vision may occur. A baseline screening can help identify signs of eye disease at an early stage when many treatments can have the greatest impact on preserving vision.
• Seek treatment early
  According to AARP, when cataracts are in their early stages, patients can find some relief with new eyeglass prescriptions, brighter lighting, antiglare sunglasses or magnifying lenses. But once the cataract progresses and symptoms are interfering with the activities of daily living, reading, driving, watching TV, then surgery to remove the cataract is the only alternative.
• Address cataract issues promptly
  The timing of surgical intervention is critical to achieve the best outcome and quality of vision possible. Waiting for a cataract to become “ripe” is an antiquated concept. Cataract surgery is undertaken when the cataract begins to interfere with quality of life or visual functioning. The cloudy lens is removed surgically and the artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted. Good timing can also lower the rate of complications and prevent blindness or permanent vision impairment in many cases.

Still have questions? Contact us or click to learn more about cataracts and cataract surgery.

Trust ZiekerEye Ophthalmology for effective solutions to cataracts. Call us at 518.450.1080 or use our convenient online Request an Appointment form to schedule your consultation.