Cataract Surgery: What You Need To Know
Are you experiencing blurred or cloudy vision? Do you notice a yellow tint in your vision? These could be signs of cataracts, a common eye condition that affects millions of people worldwide. If left untreated, cataracts can significantly impact your daily life and eventually lead to blindness. However, with modern advancements in technology and medical procedures, cataract surgery has become a safe and effective way to restore your vision. This post will discuss everything you need to know about cataract surgery.
What Are Cataracts?
Cataracts occur when the natural lens of your eye becomes cloudy, causing blurred or distorted vision. This clouding is usually a result of protein buildup in the lens, which can happen due to aging, genetic factors, or certain medical conditions such as diabetes. Cataracts often develop gradually and may affect one or both eyes.
Signs You Might Have Cataracts
Some of the signs that you have cataracts may include the following:
- Blurred, cloudy, or dim vision
- Difficulty seeing at night or in low-light conditions
- Sensitivity to glare and light
- Seeing halos around lights
- Double vision in one eye
- Fading or yellowing of colors
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to schedule an eye exam with your ophthalmologist for a proper diagnosis.
When Is Cataract Surgery Necessary?
Cataracts can be managed with glasses or contact lenses in their early stages. However, as they progress and start to interfere with your daily activities, such as driving, reading, or watching TV, surgery may be necessary. Cataract surgery is also recommended if cataracts significantly affect your quality of life or if they cause other eye complications, such as glaucoma or retinal detachment.
The Procedure
Cataract surgery involves the removal of the cloudy lens and its replacement with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The procedure is typically done on an outpatient basis, allowing you to return home on the same day. Before the surgery, your eye will be numbed with anesthesia to prevent any discomfort.
During the surgery, your surgeon will make a small incision in your cornea and use ultrasound waves to break up the cloudy lens. The pieces of the lens are then removed, and the IOL is inserted in its place. The incision is self-healing and does not require stitches.
Recovery
After the surgery, you will need some time to rest and recover. Your eye may feel itchy or slightly uncomfortable, but this should subside within a few days. You will be prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and promote healing. It is essential to follow the post-operative instructions given by your surgeon for a successful recovery.
Contact a company like ADVANCED LASER & CATARACT CENTER Of Oklahoma to learn more.