Cataracts are the leading cause of vision loss in the world, affecting about 10 percent of Americans. In fact, 22 million Americans over the age of 40 are affected by cataracts every year. But what are cataracts exactly?
A cataract is a cloudiness that develops in the clear lens of the eye. Located just behind the pupil, the lens of the eye is what fine-tunes the focus of light on the retina. Cataracts diminish the amount of light reaching the retina and can worsen with time. Even a small to medium cataract can have a significant impact on vision reduction, as it is centrally located in the lens of the eye.
If you have cataracts, all is not lost. Because the eye condition is so common, advances in technology have made cataract surgery one of the most successful surgical procedures in the world. Many people don’t realize they have cataracts because the symptoms are so minimal in the beginning. Understanding the early signs and symptoms of cataracts are the best way to protect your eyes, and knowledge is power. Read on to learn five myths about cataract surgery.
Cataracts Only Affects Seniors
Cataracts are common in older people, with more than half of Americans having had a cataract or cataract surgery by age 80. While most cataracts are related to aging, the term “age-related” can be misleading, as people can develop an age-related cataract as early as their 40s. The truth is that most cataracts are small and related symptoms may not be noticed until years after having developed.
Cataracts Only Occur with Age
Also untrue! While very common in older people, age is just one factor in the development of a cataract. Other types of cataracts can occur, including traumatic cataracts caused by an injury to the eye, and secondary cataracts occurring after surgery for other eye problems such as glaucoma.
There’s Nothing You Can Do About Them
Age-related cataracts cannot be prevented, but there are several steps you can take to slow their progression. Wear UV-protected sunglasses, eat a healthy diet, and always take your vitamins. For those who smoke or have diabetes, it’s important to note that you are at a higher risk for developing cataracts. Women, too, have a higher risk of developing cataracts than men.
Surgery is Your Only Option
Cataract symptoms can range from mild to the severe end of the spectrum, with the first including faded colors and sensitivity to light, and the latter including debilitating blurred vision. Mild symptoms can be improved with anti-glare glasses and brighter lighting.
Cataract Surgery is Risky
Cataract surgery is a frequently performed procedure in the United States and has a 95 percent success rate. While risks do exist with all types of surgery, the odds are very much in your favor for a smooth and successful operation that will restore your vision. Cataracts surgery is handled as an outpatient procedure that takes less than an hour. In most cases, you’ll be back on your feet the day after surgery (but be sure to avoid heavy lifting and bending for about three weeks after the procedure).
Considering cataract surgery? Contact Stahl Eyecare Experts in New York for your cataract surgery consultation. Our cataract specialists diagnose and treat cataracts using the most advanced technology and surgical methods.
