A cataract is a major problem that develops in the eyes as one grows older. It causes the eyes to become cloudy and, thus, impairs vision. The thing about cataract is that it begins mildly, such that the vision begins to turn blurry and foggy, and glasses do not help. Soon after, the cataract increases in its size and intensity, so much so that it eventually covers the entire iris and pupil. It is imperative to get cataract surgery done before it takes over the entire eye because it can otherwise lead to complete blindness. Supplements exist to prevent it from increasing, but it becomes a lifelong predicament – surgery is a one-time procedure, making life much easier.
Diagnosing cataract
An eye doctor is in charge of diagnosing cataracts by conducting certain tests, which can be either or more than one of the following:
- Retinal Exam – Also called ophthalmoscopy or funduscopy, a retinal exam involves your doctor putting an eyedrop to expand your pupils, allowing them to examine your retina (the back of the eye).
- Visual Acuity Test – This is the test that requires you to read the letters and numbers off a screen. The alphabets or numbers come in decreasing sizes, and it tests the limit to which you can see them accurately.
- Slit-lamp Examination – A slit-lamp is, simply put, a microscope for the eye with a bright light shone into the eye. Such an examination opens up the eye and allows the doctor to fully and accurately see the iris, pupils, retina, and the others. This is rather effective for the doctor as it can help them point out abnormalities and problems from up close.
Symptoms of cataract
Some general symptoms can indicate a cataract initially, but the symptoms become more obvious as it worsens. Some of these symptoms are as follows:
- Blurry or foggy vision
- Inability to see properly at night
- Hypersensitivity to light and glares
- Inability to read or see things in dim lighting
- Complete loss of vision (in cases that are left untreated for too long)
- Inability to read or see something very fine or far
If the symptoms persist, make an appointment with an eye doctor. The eye doctor will conduct an official check-up with a diagnosis to indicate whether the problem is a cataract.
What comes after finding out you have a cataract?
If you think that you have a cataract’s symptoms, there are different routes that you may take. It is important to note that a type of cataract intensifies rapidly, but this is the relatively uncommon one. For the most part, the cataract takes some time to expand, which gives the patient time to think about their options.
The two obvious options for healing a cataract is either to ignore it and let it grow (only if it is not rapidly expanding) or to go in for surgery right away. Of course, the due process depends on the comfort of the patient after having consulted with a doctor. However, let it be noted that even though letting it be is an option, if it begins to get in the way of your life by seriously impairing your vision, going in for surgery is imperative.
Going in for a cataract surgery
There are two kinds of cataract surgeries for which one may opt. Depending on the patient’s financial capabilities as well comfort, they can choose from the following:
- Basic Cataract Surgery – this surgery is a basic out-patient surgery wherein the cataract layer is removed and replaced with an intraocular lens.
- Laser Cataract Surgery – this surgery is also called LASIK, and it involves the reshaping of the cornea.
Note that if there is a cataract present in both eyes, the surgeries will only be done one after another (after the first one heals).
Cataract surgeons Austin Tx
There are several great cataract surgeons Austin Tx that are the best at what they do, and they are listed from Texas as follows:
- Dr. Marie Bui at Austin Eye
- Dr. L Shawn Wong at Eyes of Texas Laser Center
- Dr. Mark Plunkett at Eye Physicians of Austin
- Dr. Kurt Andreason at Westlake Eye Specialists
- Dr. Zarmeena Vendal at Westlake Eye Specialists
Conclusion
The symptoms of a cataract may be ignored for some time, but as long as they do not prove disruptive to our lives. If you live in the Lone Star State capital and seem to be having foggy vision (or any symptoms mentioned above), do visit the cataract surgeons Austin TX has to offer.
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