Cataract FAQs
A cataract is the clouding of the natural lens in the eye, which can lead to blurred or impaired vision. The lens is normally clear, but as cataracts develop, it becomes less transparent, making it harder to see clearly. Cataracts are common with aging but can also result from trauma, medications, or other health conditions.
Common symptoms of cataracts include:
- Blurred or cloudy vision
- Increased sensitivity to light and glare
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Fading or yellowing of colors
- Frequent changes in glasses or contact lens prescriptions
- Seeing halos around lights
- If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to schedule an eye exam for a proper diagnosis.
Cataracts are diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam. Your eye doctor will conduct a series of tests to assess your vision, check for clouding of the lens, and determine the severity of the cataract. Testing may include a visual acuity test, slit-lamp exam, and retinal exam.
The most common cause of cataracts is aging. As you get older, the proteins in your eye’s lens break down, causing the lens to become cloudy. Other factors that can contribute to cataracts include:
- Prolonged exposure to UV light
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Use of certain medications, such as steroids
- Eye injuries or trauma
- A family history of cataracts
While cataracts are largely related to aging and cannot always be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:
- Wear sunglasses that block UV rays to protect your eyes from sunlight.
- Eat a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables.
- Avoid smoking.
- Manage any chronic health conditions, like diabetes.
- Have regular eye exams to monitor your eye health.
The only effective treatment for cataracts is surgery. Cataract surgery involves removing the clouded lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). There are several types of IOLs available, including monofocal, multifocal, and toric lenses, depending on your vision needs. Your eye doctor will help you choose the best lens option.
Cataract surgery should be considered when your cataracts begin to interfere with your daily activities, such as driving, reading, or working. If your vision is severely impaired or your quality of life is being affected by cataracts, it may be time to discuss surgery with your ophthalmologist.
Most patients experience a smooth recovery after cataract surgery. You may notice improved vision within a few days, but complete healing can take a few weeks. You’ll need to use prescribed eye drops and protect your eyes from potential strain or injury. Your doctor will provide detailed post-operative care instructions and monitor your recovery through follow-up appointments.
Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most commonly performed procedures in the world. The surgery has a high success rate, and complications are rare. However, as with any surgery, there are potential risks, such as infection or inflammation, which is why it’s important to follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions closely.
The need for glasses after cataract surgery depends on the type of intraocular lens (IOL) you choose. Standard monofocal lenses provide excellent distance vision but may still require you to wear reading glasses for close-up tasks. Multifocal or toric lenses can reduce or eliminate the need for glasses at multiple distances, depending on your individual needs and the health of your eyes.
Cataract surgery typically takes around 10 to 20 minutes per eye. However, the entire process, including preparation and post-operative recovery, may take a few hours. Most patients have the procedure performed on an outpatient basis and return home the same day.
Once a cataract is removed, it cannot return. However, some patients may develop a condition called posterior capsule opacification (PCO), which can cause clouding of the lens capsule that holds the new IOL. This can be easily treated with a quick, painless laser procedure called YAG laser capsulotomy to restore clear vision.
Cataract surgery is generally painless. Your eye will be numbed with eye drops or a local anesthetic to ensure you feel comfortable during the procedure. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or a gritty sensation in the days following surgery, but this usually subsides quickly.
Most people experience significant improvement in their vision within a few days after cataract surgery. However, full recovery can take a few weeks. During this time, it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions, use your prescribed eye drops, and avoid strenuous activities that could put pressure on your eye.
There are several types of IOLs available, each designed to meet different vision needs. The choice of lens will depend on your lifestyle, the health of your eyes, and your specific vision goals. Dr. David Truong and his team at Azure Eye Center will work closely with you to determine the best IOL option, whether it’s a monofocal lens, multifocal lens, or a specialty lens such as the Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) or PanOptix Trifocal IOL.
Yes, cataracts can develop in both eyes, although they may not progress at the same rate. If you have cataracts in both eyes, your doctor will typically recommend scheduling separate surgeries for each eye, allowing time for recovery in between procedures.
