You’ve probably heard of cataracts, even if you aren’t aware of just how common they are. According to the National Eye Institute, cataracts affect an estimated 24.4 million Americans aged 40 or older. This progressive eye condition occurs when there are changes to the proteins that are usually evenly dispersed across the natural lens of the eye. These changes cause the proteins to clump together, creating cloudy patches in your field of vision. These may start very small, but over time will increase in size until they significantly impair your eyesight and make normal day-to-day tasks much harder.

What are the symptoms of cataracts?

The symptoms of cataracts usually start very slowly and subtly, which can make it hard to tell that you are affected. For this reason, cataracts are usually detected at routine eye exams. Nevertheless, there are symptoms to be aware of. These include:

 

• Blurred vision
   

• Feeling as though you are looking through frosted glass
   

• Sensitivity to light
   

• Glare from lights
   

• Colors look faded
   

• It is harder than usual to see at night
   

• Double vision
   

• Regular changes to your prescription

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is advisable to speak to your eye doctor and ask them about the likelihood that you might have cataracts. They will be able to perform tests and assessments to provide a diagnosis.

What are the treatment options for cataracts?

Although there are some things that you can do to help improve your vision while you are living with cataracts, the only way to permanently treat them is to have cataract surgery. Some of the suggestions that your eye doctor may make include using brighter lighting or making sure that your prescription glasses or contact lenses are up to date.


Cataract surgery may sound frightening, but it is a very simple, straightforward procedure with countless surgeries being performed across the United States every year. You can have cataract surgery under local anesthetic, meaning that you will be awake and alert for the entire process. However, you won’t experience any discomfort and you may be able to have a mild sedative to ease any anxiety you have.


During cataract surgery, the old, clouded lens is removed and replaced with an artificial alternative that can’t form cataracts. This is known as an intraocular lens or IOL for short. There are lots of different types of IOL, and your cataract surgeon will be able to recommend the variety that best suits your needs.


As with any surgery, there is a little downtime, and you can expect it to take between two and six weeks to fully recover and reach the optimal vision. During this time, it is essential that you follow the instructions given to you by your cataract surgeon.



If you are concerned about cataracts visit Coastal Vision at Chino, Orange, Irvine, or Long Beach, California. You can call (888) 501-4496 to find out more information about them and to schedule an appointment.