Cataract Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatments
When we are born, most of us have perfect vision although we may not appreciate the fact. This perfect vision is thanks to our lenses being crystal-clear, and faithfully delivering images to our retinas for processing to our brains. Eye lenses may become cloudy over time as we develop cataract symptoms for a variety of reasons. These symptoms may creep on us so gradually we hardly notice.
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Cataract Symptoms are a Warning Sign of Blindness
Before the advent of modern medicine, sufferers had to tolerate progressive sight deterioration to the point of not having functional vision. Cataracts are still the commonest cause of blindness in people aged over 40 worldwide. In America, the symptoms affect over 20 million citizens in that age group. We count ourselves lucky to have access to modern medicine.
Early cataract symptoms are like looking at photos that are slightly out of focus. The edges are not as sharp as they were before. Sometimes we can’t see distant objects like ships on the horizon as well as others can. Driving becomes a nuisance too. If we can’t read road signs properly, or oncoming headlights trouble us, it is time to have a checkup at the optometrist.
Cataract Prevention – Can We Really Do This?
Current medical research informs that cataracts are the result of oxidative alterations to the lens. This is developing a line of thinking that diets rich in high anti-oxidative fruit and vegetables can delay the onset. Other cataract research suggests that increasing Vitamin E intake can decrease the risks.
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While they may not be your fancy, spinach, almonds, and sunflower seeds have generous quantities. Since ultraviolet radiation can cause cataract symptoms to develop, it makes sense to wear 100% UV blocking sunglasses when outdoors.
Fortunately We Have Effective Cataract Treatments Available
Eye surgeons are reluctant to perform cataract surgery until it becomes unavoidable. There is a tiny element of risk, despite lens replacement being arguably the most successful surgical procedure in the world. Moreover, they usually space the two eyes a week or two apart, just in case there is a rare incident of infection.
Hence, early treatments aim at alleviating cataract symptoms, as opposed to reversing them. Opticians supply stronger reading and distance glasses, and other magnifying visual aids to make reading easier. Cataract surgery is only indicated when patients reach the point where poor vision affects their quality of life. Perhaps they can no longer drive an auto safely, or read small print on a computer screen.
How the Cataract Surgery Procedure Works
After I had my own cataracts done, I decided it was a minor event compared to other surgery. I was conscious during the separate right and left-eye procedures, although a local anesthetic meant I did not feel anything. All I heard was the quiet whirring of tiny electric motors as the surgeon removed my cloudy lens, and replaced it with a clear plastic intraocular one.
I slept at home that night. The following morning the surgeon removed the protective bandage, and I was halfway there already. After the second procedure two weeks later, he declared I had 20/20 vision. I have never looked back since then. If you have troublesome cataract symptoms, consider following the example of three million Americans having cataract surgery every year.
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