Cataracts
- What is a Cataract?
The lens of the eye lies behind the pupil and is normally clear and transparent. When this lens becomes cloudy, the condition is called a cataract.
Because less focused light can reach the interior of the eye, vision gradually diminishes.
- What are the symptoms of a cataract?
Cataracts that are linked to aging usually progress slowly, so slowly that it's sometimes difficult to even notice the
gradual change in your vision. Common symptoms of cataracts include fuzzy or blurred vision, frequent changes in glasses, double vision in one eye, problems reading, decreased color perception, and poor night vision. People often have trouble driving at night with cataracts. - What tests are conducted to diagnose a cataract?
First, a vision test for corrective lenses is necessary. Sometimes, a prescription change will improve your vision, even with a cataract. A medical eye examination will determine whether there may be other causes of vision loss. Additional tests are conducted to measure glare sensitivity, contrast sensitivity, night vision, color vision and side or central vision. - Is surgery the only option for a cataract?
Surgery is not necessary just because there is a cataract present. Symptoms may be mild and may not be causing inconveniences. If a cataract interferes with your daily activities, however, it should probably be removed. Surgery is the only effective way to remove it.
- Is surgery always successful for removing a cataract?
Surgery restores useful vision in over 90% of all cases. Naturally, the results cannot be guaranteed. Sometimes, there are additional reasons for visual loss that involve the retina or optic nerve. In such cases, the return of vision after cataract removal may not be perfect and, if the condition is severe, there may be no visual improvement. After an examination, an ophthalmologist can usually predict the likelihood of visual improvement with surgery.
Anytime you are not seeing clearly, you should call for an appointment with an eye care professional immediately.
Take your first step toward clearer vision today.
Call The Eye Centers of Racine and Kenosha.
Dr. Kanwar A. Singh is a board-certified ophthalmologist and eye surgeon and has been practicing in Racine and Kenosha for over 25 years. He is a Fellow of both the American College of Surgeons and the American Academy of Ophthalmology. His surgical procedures use cutting edge technology to treat eye problems including the latest laser treatment for cataracts.
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