Is It Possible to Prevent Cataracts?
Cataracts are a common eye condition that impacts many people as they age. While vision problems from cataracts may not be noticeable at first, they can begin to significantly affect your eyesight as they develop.
But are there steps you can take to prevent vision impairment from cataracts? Keep reading to learn more about whether it is possible to prevent cataracts.
What Are Cataracts?
Cataracts are cloudy patches that form on the natural lens of the eye. This typically occurs due to the natural aging process, as the proteins that make up the natural lens start to break down and form clumps called cataracts.
The most common symptoms of cataracts include:
- Foggy or cloudy vision
- Faded or yellowed colors
- Trouble with night vision
- Frequent prescription changes
- Light sensitivity
- Halos and glare
How Are Cataracts Treated?
Cataracts can be managed with glasses and contacts at first, but as they progress, these visual aids will not be enough to ensure you can do all the things you want to do. Eventually, you may find it challenging to drive, read, or navigate around your home.
The only way to permanently fix vision impairment from cataracts is through cataract surgery. During this procedure, your eye doctor removes your clouded eye lens and replaces it with an IOL or intraocular lens.
This lens can’t develop cataracts but functions just like your natural lens. Depending on the IOL you choose, you may even be able to reduce or eliminate your reliance on visual aids.
Are Cataracts Preventable?
Cataracts aren’t completely preventable, but you can do some things to delay their formation. Eye doctors recommend:
- Using proper UV protection to deter damage to your vision from the sun
- Eating a healthy diet that promotes eye health by incorporating vitamin C and antioxidants
- Managing certain underlying health conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure
Keep in mind that while these steps can help, they won’t necessarily deter cataracts. Once they begin to form, the only way to prevent them from progressing is through cataract surgery.
Why Eye Exams Are Crucial to Cataract Treatment
Because cataracts form gradually, the best way to detect them early is through routine eye exams. During your eye exam, your ophthalmologist will examine your eyes to diagnose issues such as cataracts and other vision concerns.
Based on the symptoms you’re experiencing and the findings of your eye exam, your eye doctor will create a treatment plan to help restore your vision.
What Will My Vision Be Like After Cataract Surgery?
After your cataract-affected lens has been removed, your eye doctor will replace it with an IOL. If you choose a standard monofocal lens for your IOL, you will enjoy clear vision at one distance, but will likely still need visual aids for certain activities.
However, if you want more visual freedom after cataract surgery, you may be better suited for one of the premium lenses offered at Mid Ohio Eye. These include:
Toric IOLs
Toric IOLs are specially shaped to correct astigmatism. They can also help reduce your dependence on glasses and contacts.
Multifocal IOLs
Multifocal IOLs offer patients greater visual freedom by providing vision correction at multiple distinct distances.
Extended Depth of Focus IOLs
Extended depth of focus (EDOF) lenses like the Vivity lens give patients clear vision across a broad range of distances. A unique benefit of the Vivity lens is that it reduces visual disturbances like halos and glare for a smoother visual experience.
At your cataract surgery consultation, your opthalmologist at Mid Ohio Eye will help you choose the best IOL to suit your lifestyle and visual goals. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask them any questions about the procedure, recovery, and what to expect in the weeks and months following cataract surgery.
Do you think you may be experiencing symptoms of cataracts? Schedule an appointment at Mid Ohio Eye in Columbus, OH, today to get a diagnosis and comprehensive treatment plan to help improve your vision!
