Our goal at Van Eeden & Le Roux is to support you in keeping your vision healthy and clear. Cataracts are one of the most prevalent eye conditions. It is essential to understand what cataracts are, the symptoms and available treatments for successful management.
What Are Cataracts?
The lens of the eye, which is located behind the iris and pupil, becomes ‘cloudy’ when a cataract develops. If treatment for this clouding is not received, it may result in substantial vision loss. Although they are frequently linked to ageing, cataracts can also be caused by trauma, specific illnesses or long-term use of certain drugs.
Symptoms of Cataracts
Cataracts may not cause any symptoms at first and develop slowly. When they progress, they may result in a number of obvious changes to your eyesight, such as:
Blurry Vision: One of the most typical signs is a progressive blurring of the vision which makes it challenging to see small details.
Faded Colours: Colours may appear less vibrant or more yellowed.
Difficulty with Night Vision: Cataracts can make it challenging to see clearly at night and are often accompanied by glare or halos around lights.
Sensitivity to Light: Increased sensitivity to bright lights and glare.
Double Vision: In some cases cataracts may cause double vision.
Frequent Prescription Changes: A need for frequent changes in lenses or contact lens prescriptions may also be a sign of developing cataracts.
Treatment Options for Cataracts
When cataracts begin to affect your daily life, it’s time to explore treatment options. The primary treatment for cataracts is surgical intervention:
Cataract Surgery
Generally speaking, cataract surgery is a common and safe treatment. The procedure involves removing the cloudy lens material and inserting an intraocular lens (IOL), a clean artificial lens. This is what to expect:
Pre-Surgery Evaluation: The degree of the cataract progression and the most suitable type of IOL for you will be determined by the ophthalmologist.
The Procedure: Since the procedure is typically done as an outpatient, you can return home the same day. The IOL will be implanted after the surgeon makes a tiny incision in the eye to remove the clouded lens material.
Recovery: Following surgery, you may need to use eye drops to promote healing and deal with some discomfort. While most people experience better vision in a few days, complete recovery may need 3 months or more.
Preventing Cataracts
Although ageing is the primary cause of cataracts, there are certain adjustments to life that can help postpone their onset:
Protect Your Eyes: Wear sunglasses that block UV rays.
Healthy Diet: Eat a diet rich in antioxidants, including fruits and vegetables.
Regular Eye Exams: Routine eye exams may detect cataracts early, allowing for timely management.
At Van Eeden & Le Roux, we’re dedicated to giving you the best service to help your vision remain healthy and clear. Book an appointment with us right away if you have concerns about the health of your eyes or if you exhibit any cataract-related symptoms.
Keeping your vision at its best requires early detection and intervention.