8 Things You Might Not Know About Cataracts

Cataracts are a common condition that affects virtually everyone as we age. However, despite them being so prolific, the disease can still be frightening if you receive a diagnosis. Thankfully, effective treatment exists that can fix the problem once and for all.

The following discusses 8 cataract facts that are useful to know if you or a loved one has been told that they have or are at risk of developing them. 

Cataract Facts: a serious but treatable condition

• Cataract facts #1: the condition develops over many years
• Cataract facts #2: you can reduce your risk of cataracts
• Cataract facts #3: cataracts don’t only affect the elderly
• Cataract facts #4: cataracts have no symptoms at first
• Cataract facts #5: cataract removal is fast and easy
• Cataract facts #6: you might not need eyeglasses after surgery
• Cataract facts #7: there is no such thing as a secondary cataract
• Cataract facts #8: over 10 million cataract operations are done each year 

Cataract facts #1: the condition develops over many years

In general, cataracts take a long time to form. It typically takes years—if not decades—from diagnosis to needing surgical intervention.  

Cataract facts #2: you can reduce your risk of cataracts

Much study has gone into the subject and most experts agree that strategic lifestyle steps can reduce the risk or slow the onset. These include:

• Not smoking or stopping if you do
• Eating a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruit and vegetables
• Wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV rays
• Ensuring a healthy weight
• Keeping cholesterol levels and blood pressure within healthy limits
• Keeping alcohol consumption within recommended guidelines
• Having regular eye examinations 

Cataract facts #3: cataracts don’t only affect the elderly

While they most commonly form as we age, there are other rarer forms. Genetic (or childhood) cataracts are usually present from birth and require specialist pediatric treatment. Others can develop following eye trauma and warrant an expert diagnosis, monitoring, and intervention. 

Cataract facts #4: cataracts have no symptoms at first

The first years of cataract formation are typically asymptomatic. It’s only as they increase in size that they begin to affect vision. This is why they’re usually first picked up during a routine eye exam. 

Cataract facts #5: cataract removal is fast and easy

The procedure to remove a cataract takes less than 30 minutes. You’ll return home the same day and should be fully recovered within about 8 weeks. 

Cataract facts #6: you might not need eyeglasses after surgery

The diseased lens is replaced with an artificial one during the surgical procedure. This is called an intraocular lens (IOL). There are many types, with some having the same vision restoring effect that bifocal eyeglasses do. If you choose one of the more advanced IOLs, you might not need to use other corrective lenses after your eyes have healed and adjusted to the new lens.  

Cataract facts #7: there is no such thing as a secondary cataract

There is a condition that’s mistakenly called a “secondary cataract”. While this does have similar symptoms to a cataract (blurred vision, yellowing/fading of colors, etc.) it’s not a new cataract forming. It’s caused by proteins clumping on the part of the lens capsule that has to be left in place to attach the IOL.

The condition is called Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO) and is treated with a single 5-minute procedure, known as YAG laser. 

Cataract facts #8: over 10 million cataract operations are done each year

At least 10 million—with a 99% success rate! Now that’s impressive stats… 

The West Boca Eye Center is a Leading Provider of Modern Cataract Surgery at the West Boca Eye Center

If you’re seeking world-leading cataract surgery, then look no further than the West Boca Eye Center. Led by globally renowned surgeon, Brent Bellotte MD., this academic grade clinic has a unit dedicated solely to providing efficient, advanced cataract surgery options.

From cataract removal to PCO treatment, right through to the rare occurrence of genetic or traumatic cataracts, there’s no better place on the planet to seek treatment.

Discover more at https://www.moderncataractsurgery.com and get in contact today to book a consultation.  

‍