Twenty-two million Americans are affected by cataracts each year. Cataracts may be the leading cause of blindness worldwide, but myths about their cause and treatment continue.
By the age of 80, over half of all Americans will either have cataracts or have had cataract surgery to remove it.
While cataracts can lead to blindness if left untreated, it is treatable. About 90 percent of patients who have had cataract surgery regain clear vision.
Keep reading to learn what’s myth and fiction when it comes to cataracts!
Myth: You can cure your cataracts using eye drops
Truth: You know the saying. If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. Applying eye drops to cure your cataracts would be great! It would be a lot less hassle than having to start the process of seeing a cataract surgeon and getting surgery.
Sorry, but this is definitely a myth! Eye drops cannot cure cataracts. The only way to cure cataracts is with cataract surgery. There are no FDA approved eye drops for dissolving cataracts, and you won’t regain your vision. Save your money for getting cataract surgery with the team at Stahl Eyecare Experts!
Myth: Cataract surgery is a dangerous procedure!
Truth: There are risks associated with any procedure, cataract surgery included. However, cataract surgery has a success rate of over 90% with patients! It has proven to be a reliable and effective way to treat cataracts.
To avoid complications, make sure to follow all instructions from your cataract surgeon. During recovery, your eyes will be more fragile than normal. This makes them more susceptible to infection and other complications.
Myth: It takes months before you have improved vision after surgery
Truth: Most patients who undergo cataract surgery report significant vision improvement. After cataract surgery, some patients may have hazy or foggy vision, but this goes away on its own. When you have cataract surgery, the natural lens in your eye gets removed.
The lens is then replaced with an artificial intraocular lens or IOL. By removing the lens (which becomes cloudy if you have a cataract) your vision will improve. As you recover, your vision will only continue to become clearer.
After a few months, you should be able to see normally! In fact, you can often return to work within a few days of having had cataract surgery. Just be sure to take it easy!
Myth: Once you have cataracts, you can’t reverse them
Truth: Cataracts are a natural process associated with aging and cannot be reversed. It is inevitable that everyone will eventually get cataracts. To reduce your risks of developing them early, protect your eyes in the sun. If you’re a smoker, stop.
Cataracts take a long time to fully develop; usually a few years. Until your cataracts start impeding your ability to see, you don’t need to have them removed. You can continue wearing glasses and contacts until they are completely developed.
Want more information about cataracts and how they could be affecting your eyes? Schedule a consultation at Stahl Eyecare Experts today!
