Cataract is one of those problems which most seniors in Los Angeles go through, especially around the age of 60. In fact, a study has revealed that more than 38.5 million individuals in the United States will have cataracts by 2032.
While aging is the most common cause of cataracts, some other causes include:
- Tobacco smoking
- Diabetes
- Eye injury
- Family history of cataracts
- Obesity
- Excessive exposure to sunlight
- Glaucoma
- Drugs, and more.
Cataracts are like cloudy areas that appear on the lens of your eyes as you age. They can be frustrating as it can make it hard to see clearly and affect your day-to-day life.
In this article, we’ll understand the symptoms of cataracts in detail, what are the treatment options available, and how to recover from them. So, let’s begin:
Symptoms of Cataracts in Seniors
Here are some of the common symptoms of cataracts in seniors:
● Blurred or Cloudy Vision
One of the most common signs or symptoms of cataracts is blurry or clouded vision. You may notice the objects appear hazy or less sharp than before. This blurriness can make it challenging for you to read, recognize faces, and watch TV.
● Difficulty Seeing at Night
Cataracts can cause difficulty seeing in low-light conditions, such as at night or in dimly lit rooms. You may experience increased glare from headlights or streetlights, making driving at night particularly challenging.
● Sensitivity to Light and Glare
If you have cataracts, you’ll become more sensitive to light and glare. For example, sunlight, bright light, or reflections can cause you discomfort or temporary blindness. It also leads to squinting or avoiding well-lit areas.
● Fading or Yellowing of Colors
As cataracts progress, colors may appear duller or more yellow than usual. This can affect the perception of colors and make it difficult to distinguish between shades and hues.
● Double Vision in One Eye
Cataracts can cause double vision, where a single object appears as two separate images. This occurs when the cloudy lens scatters light entering the eye, resulting in overlapping images.
● Frequent Changes in Eyeglass Prescription
In cataracts, you may notice that your eyeglass prescription needs frequent adjustments, despite having regular eye exams. Cataracts can alter the eye’s refractive power, leading to fluctuating vision and the need for updated prescriptions.
Treatment Options for Cataract
In the early stages of cataracts, some lifestyle changes and medications can help you manage the symptoms. But, as your cataract advances, surgery becomes necessary.
To know about the surgical procedure, consulting with cataract doctors in Los Angeles at Advanced Vision Care is recommended. Based on your current situation, the doctor will determine whether you’re the right candidate or not.
After the surgery, you’ll be advised to rest for a short period and follow all the instructions as prescribed by the surgeon.
So, cataract surgery is a safe and efficient procedure that can significantly improve vision and quality of life for seniors.
Life After Cataract Surgery
After cataract surgery, you can experience a significant improvement in your vision and quality of life. With clearer vision, you can engage more comfortably in daily activities like reading, driving, and enjoying hobbies. Also, you’ll become independent as you don’t need glasses or contacts for clear vision.
The recovery period is usually short, with most people returning to their regular activities within a few days. Regular follow-up appointments ensure the healing process is going smoothly. Overall, cataract surgery opens up a brighter, clearer world for you, allowing you to live more independently and enjoy life with improved vision.
Preventing Measures After Cataract Surgery
After the cataract surgery, you’ll need to take a lot of care of your eyes. With proper care, you can see better results of the surgery.
Here are some of the preventing measures to follow after the cataract surgery:
- Protect your eyes from the harmful UV rays from the sun. Always wear sunglasses when going out in the sun.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including eating healthy foods, exercising daily, and ditching all your bad habits like smoking.
- Manage underlying health conditions that are the primary causes of cataracts, such as diabetes and hypertension.
- Try to quit smoking and avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
- Schedule regular appointments with your eye doctor to check whether your eyes are working fine or not.
Summing Up
Cataracts are a common concern among seniors, impacting their vision and daily activities. Understanding the symptoms, treatment options, and recovery process is essential for you to manage this condition effectively.
With advancements in cataract surgery and post-operative care, seniors can look forward to clearer vision and improved quality of life. By staying proactive about eye health and seeking timely medical attention, seniors can navigate the journey of cataracts with confidence, enjoying the world through clear, unobstructed vision.
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