Cataracts are a common eye problem that affects many individuals and occur when the eye lens becomes clouded due to the natural aging process. Studies suggest that more than 50 percent of Americans develop cataracts by age 80. They are a leading cause of blindness around the world.

Cataracts can affect anyone, regardless of race, gender, or ethnicity, but are more common in individuals over 40. You can learn how an optometrist can help with cataract prevention.

Discussing Your Eye Health

When you make an appointment with an optometrist, they will want to know about your eye health history, any symptoms you experience, and how long you have had them. The information is vital when diagnosing eye conditions such as cataracts. The discussion may include your:
 

• Family history

• Any hereditary eye conditions

• Previous diagnoses

• Past eye surgeries

• Other relevant information

Comprehensive Eye Exam

Regular comprehensive eye exams are essential for ensuring you maintain good ocular health. Eye exams are especially vital if you are diagnosed with cataracts. Your vision will continue to decline, so you need regular exams to determine visual changes.

An acuity test will determine changes in your prescription, and a tonometry test will help determine the eye pressure. Eye exams allow specialists to inspect the inner eye and check the overall ocular health.

Diagnosing Cataracts

An optometrist can help determine if you have cataracts. Clouding in the eye lens impacts vision, leaving you feeling like you are looking through a frosted window. Cataracts usually develop gradually, and most people do not realize they have them until they experience vision changes.

An optometrist can help diagnose the condition in the early stages. This is crucial for coming up with the best cataract management plan.

Regular Cataract Management

If you have cataracts, you must schedule regular visits to the optometrist for management and prescription updates when necessary. The specialist will work with you to ensure you continue enjoying clear sight for as long as possible.

You can do things to delay or slow the development of cataracts. Cataracts do not usually require removal or surgery until later when vision loss limits the patient’s activities.

Discussing Treatment Options

If you develop cataracts, your optometrist will monitor your condition during regular appointments. Mild cataracts may not require surgery, but if you experience vision impairments, the eye doctor will discuss treatment options. An optometrist can detect the presence of cataracts and determine their severity. The specialist can diagnose cataracts and provide pre-and post-surgery care and management. Cataract surgery involves inserting an artificial lens that helps enhance vision.

Cataract surgery is a simple procedure that can help correct the condition. The optometrist can decide to refer you to an ophthalmologist for cataract surgery. Waiting or postponing surgical intervention will not harm the eyes.

It is a low-risk procedure, but some patients experience mild swelling, bleeding, inflammation, and drooping eyelid. The eye specialist will discuss the procedure and possible outcomes before the surgery.

For more on how an optometrist can help with cataract prevention, visit Gregg Family Eye Care at our North Wales or Secane, Pennsylvania office. Call (215) 699-2020 or (610) 831-4300 today to schedule an appointment.