Cataracts are a common eye condition affecting individuals over the age of 60. Statistics show that more than half of adults aged 80 and older either have cataracts or have undergone surgery to remove them. While cataract symptoms may initially be manageable, surgery remains the only effective treatment to eliminate them.
Thankfully, cataract surgery is considered one of the safest medical procedures, often seen as a milestone in maintaining vision during later years. If you or a loved one is dealing with cataracts, understanding what to expect and how to manage care can make the process much smoother. Although cataracts usually do not cause pain, new sensitivity to light could signal their development.
Recognizing cataracts is essential for deciding when to seek treatment. Cataracts typically form due to aging, caused by the breakdown of proteins in the eye’s lens. These proteins cluster together, leading to cloudy vision. While cataracts may begin forming around age 40, noticeable symptoms such as light sensitivity often become more apparent closer to age 60.
Causes of Cataracts
Several factors can contribute to cataract formation, including:
- Prolonged exposure to sunlight without protective eyewear
- Smoking
- A history of eye injuries, surgeries, or radiation treatments
- Family history of cataracts
- Obesity
- Medical conditions such as diabetes or prolonged use of corticosteroids
Symptoms of Cataracts
Cataracts may present with the following symptoms:
- Blurry or double vision, or difficulty distinguishing bright colors
- Increased sensitivity to light, glare, or halos around lights
- Difficulty reading without brighter lighting or magnification
- Trouble seeing well at night
Managing Cataracts Without Surgery
If cataract symptoms are mild and manageable, consider these strategies:
- Use brighter lighting or a magnifying glass for reading.
- Update your eyeglasses prescription for clearer vision.
- Avoid driving at night or in poor weather conditions.
- Reduce glare by using adjustable blinds or curtains.
- Follow a healthy diet and maintain a healthy weight.
- Quit smoking, as it is a significant risk factor.
When Surgery Becomes Necessary
If cataracts interfere with daily activities or reduce your quality of life, it may be time to consider surgery. Consult an ophthalmologist to discuss your options and receive personalized recommendations.
Surgical Treatment for Cataracts
The most common procedure for cataract removal is phacoemulsification, which uses ultrasound or laser technology to break up the clouded lens for removal. A replacement lens is then inserted to restore vision. Rarely, extracapsular surgery may be performed for larger or more advanced cataracts.
Post-Surgery Care
After surgery, proper care is essential for recovery:
- Arrange for someone to drive you home.
- Use prescribed antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving eye drops as directed.
- Protect your eye with glasses or a plastic shield as your doctor recommends.
- Avoid touching your eyes, heavy lifting, and activities that could lead to eye injury during the healing process.
Full recovery typically occurs within eight weeks. If both eyes require surgery, procedures are often scheduled a few weeks apart, though same-day surgeries for both eyes are becoming more common. Most individuals report significantly improved vision following cataract surgery.
A Clearer vision can lead to a brighter outlook on life. As a wise saying goes, “It’s not just what you see but how you see it.”
Divine Favour Healthcare Staffing Inc. is here to help if you need additional guidance or assistance with caregiving. Visit us to learn more about how we can help you or your loved ones thrive at 647-766-5394 to learn more about our services in Toronto, the GTA, Niagara Falls, Niagara Region, Niagara on-the-lake, St.Catharines, Ottawa, Kitchener-Waterloo, Markham, and Richmond Hill, Ontario. Let us help make your retirement years as enjoyable as possible!