Cataracts impact the function of your eye's natural lens, reducing the clarity of vision. They usually occur slowly over many years, barely showing symptoms for you to notice any changes to your vision.
They cause the eye's lens to cloud due to the buildup of protein and fibers within the lens that clumps up. The buildup blocks and scatters light, preventing the formation of a sharp image at the back of the eye.
What Is Cataract Surgery?
It is a sensitive but straightforward procedure to remove the clouded eye lens and cataract and replace it with an artificial one. The procedure is generally safe and has quite a high success rate, over 90%, in restoring vision. About 50% of people over 80 years old have had the procedure.
When Do You Need It?
Cataracts usually cause blurry vision, increase glare, and cause halos around bright lights. However, some of these symptoms only manifest in much later stages of the condition. Cataract surgery is recommended only during specific times; first, when it limits normal vision, and second, when it prevents treatment of other conditions.
Limiting Vision
You need to ask five key questions to know whether a cataract impedes normal vision for your daily activities.
- Do you find reading or watching TV challenging?
- Is it safe for you to drive or do your job with your current state of vision?
- Is your vision affecting your ability to be independent?
- Are you struggling to climb stairs, do yard work, shop, cook or take medication?
- Is it harder for you to see clearly around bright lights?
Preventing Treatment
Cataracts affect the eye's natural lens, which is usually the only way for eye doctors to examine the back of the eye. Some severe eye conditions like AMD—age-related macular degeneration—and diabetic retinopathy can only be managed through continual monitoring of the retina’s health. If your cataracts affect the ability of the eye doctor to see the back of the eye, it is time to have surgery.
What Is An Intraocular Lens?
Also known as an IOL, this artificial lens replaces the natural eye's lens. It is usually rolled into place through a small incision because it is relatively flexible. You can get different types of intraocular lenses, each with its advantages. Some lenses can eliminate your need for eyeglasses if you have worn them before.
Types Of IOLs
Monofocal IOLs
These are most commonly made for distance vision but are also available for medium- and short-range distances. When people choose distance vision lenses, they also decide to get reading glasses for up-close work.
Multifocal IOLs
These sets of IOLs simultaneously provide vision for both distance and near focus.
Accommodative IOLs
These lenses allow your eye to focus at different distances.
Toric IOLs
These are special IOLs for people with astigmatism. They work by correcting the refractive error that astigmatism causes.
To learn more about cataracts or to get evaluated for surgery, schedule an appointment with King Family Eye Care at our offices in Old Saybrook or Rocky Hill, Connecticut. Call (860) 388-9300 or (860) 258-2380, respectively, to book an appointment today.