What is a Cataract?
A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens of the eye. Cataracts tend to develop gradually, and are most common in older patients. Early cataracts can be present for years, causing only minor problems with vision. Sometimes, however, cataracts advance rapidly. It is difficult to predict how quickly cataracts will cause a noticeable problem that requires surgery. The decision to have cataract surgery is based on how much trouble they are causing in day-to-day vision activities such as reading and driving at night. Most people that live long enough will develop cataracts.
What are the signs and symptoms of Cataracts?
The most obvious symptom is a loss of clear or distinct vision, and occasionally poor vision in bright light such as car headlights or sunshine. Others include double vision, a reduction in the ability to distinguish colours, and an increase in the number of times reading glasses are being changed. Eyes with well developed cataracts in them have a characteristic ‘milky’ film over them, and one eye is usually affected before another.
What Treatments are available?
We understand that every cataract patient is different and has different needs and desires in life. Some patients may have astigmatism, others may want to read their favorite book without the hassle of reading glasses, or they may want to play with their grandkids without worrying about their glasses or contacts. Our Cataract Surgeons are aware of their patients’ lives and strive to provide the lifestyle their patients desire, which is why we offer the most advanced intraocular lenses (IOLs) that are available and the Catalys Laser.
