If cataracts interfere with your quality of life, making it difficult to read a book or drive your car, there are treatment options available at Whitlow Family Vision Centers in Glasgow and Edmonton, Kentucky. Dr. Robert N. Whitlow and Dr. Cheryl G. Whitlow are highly skilled optometrists that diagnose and treat cataracts, a common age-related eye condition. They can recommend cataract surgery to clear your vision and monitor your eye health post-surgery. Schedule a consultation online or by phone to learn more about available treatments for cataracts.
Cataracts Q & A
What are cataracts?
A cataract is a condition where the lens of your eye clouds over, affecting your vision. Cataracts primarily result from aging and commonly affect the elderly. They can occur in just one eye or affect both eyes at the same time.
In a healthy eye, light quickly passes through the lens to the retina, which triggers nerve signals that travel to the brain. For your retina to receive a clear image, the lens must be clear.
When you have a cataract, the light passing through your lens to your retina is slightly obscured. That blurs your vision.
What causes cataracts?
The lens of your eye is made up of proteins and water. When your eye is healthy, proteins ensure that your lens stays clear. As you age, the proteins can clump together, causing cloudiness in part of your lens that blurs your vision.
Additionally, cataracts can be the result of other factors, including chronic medical conditions, like diabetes, and lifestyle habits, like smoking.
What are the symptoms of cataracts?
Besides blurry vision, other symptoms of cataracts may include:
- Double vision
- Poor night vision
- Colors appear faded
- Seeing halos and glares around light
You may also need frequent changes to your eyeglass or contact lens prescription.
Which cataract treatment options are available?
Dr. Whitlow can diagnose cataracts visually and perform a comprehensive eye exam to identify other underlying medical issues. If cataracts limit your ability to perform daily activities, Dr. Whitlow may recommend surgery. The procedure involves the removal of the clouded lens and replacing it with a clear, artificial lens.
You may also need to have cataract surgery if you have an eye disease such as macular degeneration. In such a case, the clouded lens could make it difficult for Dr. Whitlow to monitor your internal eye health.
What are the risks of cataract surgery?
Cataract surgery is a safe and effective procedure that can significantly improve your vision. As with any surgery, there is a small risk of infection. You may also be at an increased risk for retinal detachment, a condition where your retina pulls away from its normal position and causes a loss of vision.
Dr. Whitlow will monitor your eyes for any indication of retinal detachment or other medical issues following your cataract surgery. To learn more about the options for treating cataracts, schedule an appointment online or by phone.