June is cataract awareness month
Monday, June 15th, 2020, 7:19 am
At Marion Eye Center and Optical, we want our patients to visit us for any of their eyecare needs. During the month of June, patients can learn about cataracts, as this month has been designated as Cataract Awareness Month.
What are cataracts?
Cataracts occur when the lens of the eye becomes clouded. This haziness will transfer to one’s vision when the light entering the eyes is filtered through the clouded lens and hits the retina, which sends the images to the brain that helps us see. This clouding can become extremely bad, causing patients to experience changes in their quality of life. Severe cataracts can make it difficult to recognize faces, read a book, or drive a vehicle. At this point, most patients will need to consider cataract surgery to restore their vision.
How are cataracts treated?
Surgical intervention is the only way to successfully eliminate cataracts. During this surgery, patients will have their clouded lens removed and an intraocular lens, also known as an IOL, put in its place. These intraocular lenses eliminate the cataracts that have developed and can restore vision.
If cataracts are in the earlier stages, surgery is not typically recommended. In fact, most patients can improve their vision with certain visual aids, special lighting during usual activities, and new prescription eyeglasses. It is only when the condition becomes more severe that our team may recommend surgical intervention.
Who is at risk of developing cataracts?
There are several factors that increase one’s risk of developing cataracts. They include:
- Increasing age
- Patients with diabetes
- Steroid medication use
- Those with extensive unprotected sun exposure
- Those with a family history of cataracts
However, patients can get cataracts at any age, and are encouraged to work with a doctor to improve their quality of life regardless of when they occur.
Schedule an evaluation with the team of Marion Eye Center and Optical today!
Patients in the area of Illinois and Missouri who are concerned about cataracts are welcome to book an appointment at any one of our 36 convenient locations. We are committed to assisting patients in maintaining healthy eyes and reducing the risk of diseases and disorders which may impact their vision and overall quality of life.
Category: Cataract
