When it comes to cataracts, many of us could use a little clarity. From diagnosis to cataract management, here’s everything you need to know about the eye condition from a Calgary eye doctor.
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens and is a leading cause of vision loss in people over the age of 40. Some of the symptoms may include:
- Blurry vision
- Double vision
- Light sensitivity
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Sudden changes in your eyeglass prescription
It’s important to note that most age-related cataracts develop gradually. As a result, you may not notice signs or changes in your vision straight away. That’s why it’s important to book regular eye exams with your Calgary eye doctor to ensure any changes are detected and managed as soon as possible.
Calgary Cataract Management
At Market Mall Optometry, our accredited eye doctors are qualified and experienced in the diagnosis of cataracts. We use a comprehensive eye exam to check the health of your eye and examine your lens carefully for any signs of cataract formation.
Our staff is also happy to provide cataract management services including all pre and post-cataract surgery care, ensuring that your vision always remains clear, strong and comfortable.
4 Cataract Myths Debunked
Despite cataracts being a leading cause of blindness around the world, there are a number of myths and misconceptions that surround the management and treatment of cataracts.
If you have started to develop this eye condition, or you’re at a high risk of developing it, it’s important to speak to your eye doctor straight away. But before you do, here are a few myths you should be aware of:
1. CATARACTS ONLY AFFECT SENIORS
While it’s true that most cataract patients are senior citizens, they are not the only people at risk for this eye condition. Cataracts can sometimes develop in younger patients due to:
- Trauma
- Diabetes
- A congenital anomaly
- Other eye disorders
Although cataracts at a young age are not common, it’s important to know the warning signs and talk to your eye doctor about any changes in your vision, so they can diagnose and treat the condition as early as possible.
2. CATARACTS ARE JUST A PART OF AGING & THERE IS NOTHING YOU CAN DO ABOUT THEM
While cataracts cannot be prevented, there are several things you can do to slow down their progression. This includes:
Changing Your Diet
The same diet that is good for your body is good for your eyes. To slow down the progression of cataracts, make sure to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, particularly those rich in antioxidants.
Protecting Your Eyes
Wearing sunglasses or a wide-brimmed hat will protect your eyes from extensive exposure to the sun and slow down the progression of cataracts.
Stop Smoking
Several studies have shown that smoking increases a patient’s risk of developing cataracts.
3. SURGERY IS THE ONLY OPTION FOR CATARACT MANAGEMENT
Cataract symptoms can range from mild (colors appear faded, sensitivity to glare) to more severe (blurred vision and poor face recognition.) If you are experiencing mild symptoms, your eye doctor may be able to recommend non-surgical management options including:
- Eyeglasses
- Anti-glare sunglasses
- Magnifying lenses
However, if vision loss is interfering with your everyday activities such as driving, reading or working, then surgery is the most effective treatment option.
4. CATARACT SURGERY IS A HIGH-RISK & PAINFUL PROCEDURE
This persisting piece of misinformation is one of the most unfortunate cataract myths as it needlessly prevents many people from getting the life-changing treatment they need to improve their quality of life.
While it’s true that cataract surgery USED to require a hospital stay and lengthy recovery period, this is no longer the case for modern cataract surgery.
Post-Cataract Surgery Care
After cataract surgery, it’s important to still have regular eye exams. At Market Mall Optometry, our eye doctors provide affordable and comprehensive post-cataract surgery care to check the health of your eyes and help you maintain good vision.
Call Today
To find out more about our comprehensive cataract management services and learn how our eye doctors can help protect your vision, contact our Calgary clinic at 403-286-4884 or book an eye exam today.
