What is Cataract?

At the front of our eyes, we have lenses that are made of protein and water. Normally these lenses are clear. However, in the elderly, the protein may form clumps and become sticky which is known as a cataract. Most people have no idea of its presence. After years, cataracts will gradually grow and affect the majority part of your range of vision.

What are the early symptoms of eye cataracts?

• Blurry, dull or indistinct vision
• Can feel like looking through a foggy window
• Double vision or multiple copies of images
• Trouble in reading, driving, telling different colors apart and carrying out regular activities

Relax, don’t panic!

Cataracts are nothing to fear and I have some reassuring information for you.

• Cataracts are a common result of aging. About 20% of adults over the age of 65 have a cataract.
• Cataracts never spread from one eye to another.
• Approximately 1.5 million cataract treatments are performed every year in the US.
• 90% of people have successful cataract treatment and their vision is improved.

Consult your doctor

If your doctor identifies eye cataracts, he will examine your eye using specific tests. These tests will tell you whether your cataract is mature or in an immature state. In mild cases, if your cataracts are small, simply using eyeglasses, anti-glare glasses, magnifying lenses, or just using sunglasses to block ultraviolet rays may be all you need. You may not need cataract treatment for several years. 

Getting ready for the surgery

The only effective way to get rid of cataracts is by surgery. This surgery has been done safely and effectively over many years. The most common method is phacoemulsification, in short, we call it “phaco”. This surgery is done with high sound waves that break up the discolored lens. Then it is removed by sanction. The whole process is done by machine without the touch of the hand.

If you decide to have a surgery