August is National Cataract Awareness Month

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, cataracts are the leading cause of visual loss in Americans 65 and older. Nearly half of adults by age 80 will develop cataracts, or clouding of the lens. This month, learn how to recognize the symptoms, find treatment, and educate others on this common (but treatable) eye condition.

What is a Cataract?

A cataract is the clouding of the natural lens of the eye, the same part of the eye responsible for focusing light and enabling you to see sharp and clear images. The causes for developing cataracts include eye injury, previous eye surgery, a high salt intake, long-term unprotected sun exposure, and family history of cataracts.

Symptoms

According to emedicineheath.com, the most common symptoms of cataracts are:

- clouded or blurry vision

- sensitivity to light, both nighttime glare and daylight

- fading colors

- difficulty reading

- double vision (often goes away as cataracts worsen)

- Frequent changes in prescription of eyeglasses and contact lenses

It is important to note that small cataracts may not cause any noticeable changes in your vision, but as the condition tends to develop slowly, it will eventually get worse. For some people, their close-up vision will improve, but this is only temporary. If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor, as these may be signs of a cataract or other eye conditions. An ophthalmologist, a doctor who specializes in eye care and surgery, should be seen to diagnose and help treat your eye condition.

Treatment

For smaller cataracts, the first steps of treatment include changes in your prescription of eyewear, using a magnifying lens, or increasing your lighting. As the condition progresses, surgery is the most effective treatment.

There are 3 different types of surgical procedures for treating cataracts, the most common being Phacoemulsification. Also known as small incision surgery, the ophthalmologist makes a small incision on the side of the cornea, the clear domed shaped surface that covers the front of the eye. Then a small probe is inserted into the eye, emitting an ultrasound wave that breaks up the cloudy center of the lens so it can be removed by suction. The back half of the lens capsule is left behind. You may be sedated or if awake, the nerves around and in the eye are numbed prior to the procedure.

In most cataract surgeries, the lens in the eye is replaced by an intraocular lens, made of plastic, silicone, or acrylic compounds. This may not be an option for some people who have other eye conditions or problems during the surgery. In these cases, the ophthalmologist will use a soft contact lens or eyeglasses for magnification.

Aftercare

After surgery, you will generally be allowed to go home, but you cannot drive. You may be prescribed eye drops or pills to help control pressure in the eye and encourage healing. And an eye shield or eyeglasses will be worn to help protect the eye. Try to avoid rubbing the affected eye, and avoid heavy lifting or bending, as this increases the pressure in the eye. You will have several follow-up visits with your ophthalmologist to track the progress of your vision.

Prevention

One of the best ways to help prevent cataracts and problems with the retina of the eye is to wear proper eye protection from the sun. UV blocking sunglasses should be worn anytime you are exposed to the sun's rays. Also, the American Academy Ophthalmologists recommend eating a diet rich in antioxidants such as spinach, broccoli, and eggs. Some studies also suggest Vitamin C and E supplements may help to decrease your risk of developing cataracts.

It is vital that you receive regular checkups with your eye doctor, especially after age 40 to help diagnose cataracts and other common eye problems early. Before then, adults should have an eye exam every 2-3 years. If an early cataract is detected, eyeglasses and contact lenses will be used until surgery becomes necessary.

For More Information

To learn more about cataracts, other eye conditions, and how to keep your eyes healthy, visit:

http://www.aao.org/

http://www.preventblindness.org/news/observe.html

And for information on helping low income seniors receive cost effective eye care, check out:

http://www.eyecareamerica.org/