Almost everyone has heard of cataracts. “My mother had them.” “My grandfather had surgery recently.” These are common things I hear many patients say when I start talking about cataracts. They are one of the most common causes of blindness worldwide. Fortunately, cataract surgery is very safe, predicable, and common in the United States. We all develop cataracts in our later years and a variety of surgical corrections are now available.
Cataracts occur as a natural aging process of the natural lens we are all born with inside the eye. The lens gets hazy like a dirty or frosted windshield which makes it hard to see through. Sometimes symptoms of blurred vision or glare can occur in your 50’s or 60’s and surgery is common in people over 65. In contrast, I also have patients in their 90’s who haven’t had their cataracts removed and still see quite well. Sometimes it is hard to know when to recommend cataract surgery. I usually tell patients, if you cannot read or drive comfortably and your vision is affecting your lifestyle, it is time to consider having your cataracts removed.
Changes in vision could be the result of cataracts but can also be the result of other issues or just natural aging of the eye. This is why routine eye exams are important, even for those who don’t use corrective lenses. If eye exams are not a part of your current health care routine, consider scheduling an eye exam.
The Lakeview Clinic Eye Care team does not have a cataract surgeon, but we work closely with most surgeons in the area. We commonly refer to surgeons we know well who provide options including correction for astigmatism, nearsightedness, and farsightedness. You will need a careful evaluation by a surgeon who will take special measurements of the eye to determine what kind and what power of implant is best for your eye. This lens will last your entire life. Usually after cataract surgery people are less dependent on glasses and are very happy with the result. The Optometrists at Lakeview are happy to provide referrals to area Ophthalmologists for surgery. Once the surgery and most of the post operative care is completed, we are happy to see you for a final glasses prescription check and then continue your routine vision exams.
Dr. Bradley J. Ludwig
Dr. Ludwig provides eye care for a wide range of ages from toddlers to seniors. He has many years of experience following chronic conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration and also provides acute care such as foreign body removal and caring for various eye problems. CLICK HERE to learn more about Dr. Ludwig, O.D.