Home » Blog » I Have Been Diagnosed With Cataracts. What Should I Do Next?

Posted by: Medical Center Ophthalmology Associates in Eye Health

If you, a family member, or a friend has been diagnosed with cataracts by an eye doctor, you’re not alone. The American Academy of Ophthalmology reports that over 24.4 million Americans aged 40 and older are affected by cataracts. This is a common condition, and our practice is dedicated to providing you with the best support through your cataract journey. Count on us every step of the way.

Here are some recommendations from the American Academy of Ophthalmology to follow after being diagnosed with a cataract.

• You should have an eye exam every year if you’re over 65, or every two years if you’re younger.
• Protect your eyes from UV light by wearing sunglasses and a hat that blocks at least 99 percent UV.
• If you smoke, quit. Smoking is a key risk factor for cataracts.
• Use brighter lights for reading and other activities. A magnifying glass may be helpful to use.
• Limit driving at night when night vision, halos, or glare affect safety.
• Address any remaining health issues, particularly diabetes..
• If you find it difficult to carry out your usual activities, think about undergoing cataract surgery..
• Make an informed choice regarding cataract surgery. Talk with your eye doctor about the following::
  • Cataract surgery
  • Preparation for and recovery after surgery
  • Benefits and possible complications of cataract surgery
  • Cataract surgery costs
  • Don’t be afraid to ask your eye doctor questions.  

Protect Your Eyes

You might be able to slow the progression of cataracts by shielding your eyes from sunlight. The best way to do this is to wear sunglasses that block out the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Cataract Treatment

How are cataracts removed? Cataracts can only be removed through surgery. If your cataract symptoms are not causing much trouble, consult your eye doctor to determine the best time for removal. Your eye doctor can recommend options that will best fit your needs.

What Happens During Cataract Surgery?

During cataract surgery, your eye surgeon will remove your eye’s cloudy natural lens. Then, your eye surgeon will replace it with an artificial lens. This new lens is called an intraocular lens (or IOL). When you decide to have cataract surgery, your doctor will educate you about IOLs and how they work.

Cataracts are a common cause of vision loss, but it’s reassuring to know they can be treated. Thanks to medical advancements, cataract surgery has a high success rate, providing a hopeful option for restoring vision. There’s no need to suffer from vision loss today since this condition can be effectively reversed. Discuss your symptoms with your eye doctor, and together you’ll decide if cataract surgery is right for you. We work closely with our patients to achieve the best outcomes!

We sincerely appreciate our patients and thank you for being part of our practice family! Your trust and confidence are incredibly important to us, and we are committed to providing you with the best possible care.

References: American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Optometric Association. This blog provides information and discussion about eye health and related subjects. The content provided within this blog and any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered medical advice. If the reader or any person has a medical concern, they should consult with an appropriately licensed physician.