What Are Cataracts And What Can I Do About It?

When vision becomes cloudy, normally due to age factor, you can suspect cataract. The primary effect of cataract is blurred vision. Then, what is cataract and how does it develop? The word cataract is derived from Latin word cataracta which means waterfall. It is metaphorically imported into the modern English for its blurring effect on the eye. Let's take a look at the condition, what causes it, and what the procedure looks like for cataract surgery.

Cataract starts of very quietly, and "under the radar." At first, you don't even know that they are there. You experience some slight blurred vision. Sunlight or any bright light might seem too glaring. In the early stages, even if cataracts are identified, you may not need to do anything. The doctor may suggest some enhanced aids for visual assistance, like more powerful bifocals, magnifying glasses or adequate lighting for your convenience. Cataract surgery only becomes necessary once your sight has deteriorated to a point that aids won't work anymore.

There are many who believe that cataract is a normal phenomenon associated with aging, but cataract surgery is very common and an otherwise simple and painless way to get back your normal vision. It is also one of the most frequently-performed eye surgeries in the United States. Annually, over 1.5 million procedures are performed. Ninety percent of the people who have undergone cataract surgery get back their vision.

Since cataract is caused by a cloudy vision, when you get surgery, the plan is to remove the cloudy film, and replace it with a synthetic one. These lenses are called intraocular lens or IOL. There are new developments coming out regularly, and they allow for increased vision benefits. Check with your doctor to find out more about the latest developments and the best new techniques that are out there.

During cataract surgery the natural lens of the eye can be replaced with a permanent IOL implant. There are few different methods that are used, and here is a listing of some of the most common methods of lens removal. The surgery involves breaking up the cloudy lens, or cataract, using the process of ultrasound. Another method is called phacoemulsification. What happens in this procedure is the broken down lens is then sucked out before replacement. In another process called phacofracture, the cloudy lens is then taken out by a small cut or incision.

If you think you have or may be getting a cataract condition, although there may be little that you can do, you should meet with your doctor to discuss your options, and plan a strategy as the condition progresses. Treatment of cataracts can be one of the easiest things you can do to improve the quality of life.

About the Author

Visit cataract city to learn more about cataract laser surgery and cataract surgery medical tourism.

Author Profile: matt2257

Publishers:   HTML Code   PDF File    Print View  

Comments

Previous Article - Detailed Information on Necrotizing Enterocolitis
Next Article - Health Success Strategies - Putting Cognitive Behavior Therapy into Obsessive Compulsive Disorder