Cataracts are common among adults over 50. By the time you are in your late 70s, there’s almost a 50% chance you’ll have cataracts, and by the time you are 80 that number goes up to more than two thirds. A cataract causes vision loss that can’t be corrected with eyeglasses or contact lenses. This clouding of the eye’s lens also can’t be corrected by refractive surgeries like LASIK.
The good news is that cataract surgery can restore vision loss and even reduce dependence on wearing glasses or contacts. Modern cataract surgery is very safe and is one of the most effective surgical procedures performed. Each year more than three million cataract surgeries are performed in the U.S.
During cataract surgery, the cloudy lens inside your eye is removed. It’s then replaced with an artificial lens which is called an intraocular lens (IOL) and clear vision is restored. Most of the time this is an outpatient procedure that does not require an overnight stay.
If you are over the age of 50 and are experiencing cloudy vision, you may have a cataract. Schedule an appointment with your eye doctor for an exam and to discuss your symptoms. Some cataracts don’t require surgery and may not affect your vision. You may be able to get by by wearing glasses, using brighter lighting, or using a magnifying glass.
Even if you don’t need cataract surgery now, you may need it down the line if things get worse. Other symptoms of a cataract may include dim or yellow vision, double vision, light sensitivity, and poor night vision. Only your eye doctor can determine if cataract surgery is right for you, and scheduling an appointment is the first step. Contact Spindel Eye Associates at 603-421-6536 for more information.