Cataracts: Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis

Cataracts should be suspected in any individual with a slow, painless loss of vision. Using a microscope, an ophthalmologist can directly observe the cloudy areas of the lens.

Treatment

First, since smoking and obesity increase the risk for cataracts, it is important to avoid smoking and maintain a healthy weight.

Surgery is the only definitive treatment. Once cataracts occur and loss of vision becomes significant enough to interfere with the activities of daily life, surgery is usually necessary.

Before surgery, it is important to make sure that blood pressure and blood sugar are under control. If you take medications, discuss with your doctor whether you should continue taking the medications in the days leading up to surgery.

Cataract surgery is a relatively simple, low–risk procedure with a very high success rate. It takes only a few hours and patients do not need to be hospitalized. The surgeon will remove the cloudy lens and replace it with a clear lens.

Afterward, individuals can resume normal activities immediately, including reading and watching television. Most people have significantly improved vision. In some cases, patients will be asked to avoid driving for a few days or until the eye heals sufficiently.