As we age, many changes happen in our bodies, and our eyes are no exception. Cataracts are one of the most common eye conditions affecting people as they get older. The good news? Cataracts are treatable, and your optometrist plays a key role in identifying and helping you manage this condition.
At Armstrong & Small Eye Care Centre, we understand the importance of maintaining clear vision and eye health. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cataracts, from the symptoms to treatment options, and how we’re here to support you every step of the way.
What Are Cataracts?
Cataracts occur when the eye's natural lens becomes cloudy, leading to blurred vision. Proteins in the lens break down and clump together, causing clouding, which can happen as a normal part of aging. While cataracts are more common in older adults, they can occur at any age due to various factors such as injury, illness, or prolonged exposure to UV light.
Cataracts develop slowly over time, so you might not notice symptoms immediately. But as they progress, they can start interfering with daily activities like reading, driving, and recognizing faces.
Early Signs and Symptoms of Cataracts
Recognizing the signs of cataracts can make a big difference in how quickly you seek treatment.
- Cloudy or Blurry Vision: One of the most common signs is feeling like you’re looking through a foggy window. You may notice that things aren't as sharp or clear as they used to be.
- Difficulty Seeing at Night: Driving at night can become challenging, as you may see halos around lights or experience glare from oncoming headlights.
- Faded or Yellowed Colors: Colors may appear less vibrant or yellowed than usual, making it harder to differentiate between similar shades.
- Increased Sensitivity to Light: Bright lights, especially sunlight or headlights at night, may seem much more intense.
- Frequent Changes in Prescription: If you suddenly need to update your eyeglasses prescription more often than usual, it could be due to cataracts.
- Double Vision in One Eye: Cataracts can sometimes cause double vision in one eye, though this symptom tends to go away as the cataract progresses.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule an eye exam at Armstrong & Small Eye Care Centre.
Cataracts Diagnosis and Treatment
While we can't reverse cataracts, we can treat them. After diagnosing cataracts, your eye doctor will monitor the condition's progression during regular check-ups. In the initial stages, stronger glasses or better lighting might help improve vision. However, we may recommend cataract surgery as cataracts advance and begin to interfere with daily activities like reading or driving.
Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is a safe and common procedure in which the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a clear, artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL). An eye surgeon performs the surgery, which takes about 15 to 30 minutes, and most people can go home the same day.
After surgery, your eye doctor will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and ensure the new lens functions as expected. You’ll likely need eye drops for a few weeks to prevent infection and inflammation, but most people return to everyday routines within a few days.
The Role of Your Optometrist in Cataract Care
Your optometrist at Armstrong & Small Eye Care Centre is an essential partner in every stage of cataract care. During routine eye exams, we can detect early signs of cataracts long before you notice any symptoms, allowing for early management and intervention.
If we detect cataracts during your exam, we’ll discuss your symptoms, lifestyle, and the condition's progression to determine the best course of action. If we recommend surgery, we’ll refer you to a trusted ophthalmologist and remain actively involved in your post-surgery care.
With our co-management services, you can rest assured that you’ll receive comprehensive, personalized care from start to finish.
Take Control of Your Eye Health
Cataracts don’t have to hold you back. With early detection and the support of your optometrist, you can maintain clear vision and continue enjoying life to the fullest. Armstrong & Small Eye Care Centre is here to help you every step of the way, whether you’re noticing signs of cataracts or are ready for surgery.
Don’t wait until cataracts affect your daily life — schedule an eye exam with us in Winnipeg, MB, and let’s work together to protect your vision.
