If you have noticed a gradual clouding or blurring of your vision, or if you have difficulty seeing in bright light, you may be experiencing symptoms of cataracts. Cataracts are a common condition in which the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, causing vision problems. Fortunately, cataracts are treatable with surgery, but it is important to catch them early in order to prevent them from getting worse. This is why it is important to visit your eye doctor regularly for examinations.
What are cataracts?
Cataracts occur when the clear lens of the eye becomes cloudy, causing vision problems. They are a common condition, particularly among older adults. In fact, according to the World Health Organization, cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide. Cataracts can develop in one or both eyes, and can range from mild to severe.
What are the symptoms of cataracts?
Cataracts can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
- Blurry or cloudy vision
- Difficulty seeing in bright light
- Colors appearing faded or yellowed
- Halos around lights
- Double vision
- Difficulty seeing at night
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to schedule an eye exam with your eye doctor.
Why is it important to get regular eye exams?
Regular eye exams are essential for maintaining good eye health and catching eye diseases early. During an eye exam, your eye doctor will check your vision and examine the structures of your eye. They can also detect early signs of eye diseases, such as cataracts.
If you are over the age of 60, or have a family history of eye diseases, it is recommended that you get an eye exam every year. If you are younger and have no family history of eye diseases, you should still get an eye exam at least once every two years.
What should you expect during a cataract examination?
During a cataract examination, your eye doctor will examine your eyes to determine if you have cataracts, and if so, how severe they are. They will also look for other eye conditions that can affect your vision, such as glaucoma or macular degeneration.
If your eye doctor determines that you have cataracts, they may recommend cataract surgery. Cataract surgery is a safe and effective procedure that involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial lens. This can improve your vision and quality of life.
In conclusion, cataracts are a common condition that can be treated with surgery, but it is important to catch them early. Regular eye exams are essential for maintaining good eye health and catching eye diseases early. If you are experiencing any symptoms of cataracts, or if you have not had an eye exam in over a year, it is important to schedule an appointment with your eye doctor. Remember, early detection is key to maintaining good eye health and preventing vision loss.
At The Eye Center Dr. Mahnaz Naveed Shah & associates, we do our absolute best to ensure that all our patients get the very best medical and surgical eye care. Our nine dedicated eye specialists and eye surgeons are