A cataract occurs when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy and stiff, causing blurry vision. Cataracts can develop in one or both eyes at a time. However, they do not spread from one eye to the other.
At Langley Optometry Clinic, we provide more than eyeglasses in Langley; we also perform comprehensive eye exams that can detect developing cataracts.
Cataracts are among the most common conditions seen by Langley optometrists. In fact, almost all adults will experience cataracts at some point in their lives, as they develop with age. As cataracts can happen to anyone, it is important to learn a bit about them.
Many People Don't Notice Cataracts Developing
Because cataracts develop gradually, many people are not aware of just how diminished their vision has become. This is why it is important to pay close attention to the symptoms of cataracts, which include:
Blurry or cloudy vision
Faded colours
Double vision
Sensitivity to bright lights and glare
Poor night vision and difficulty driving as a result
Frequent changes to your eyeglass prescription
Comprehensive Eye Exams Can Detect Cataracts Thankfully, while cataracts are hard for the individuals who have them to detect, optometrists in Langley have the tools and expertise to detect them rather easily. They do this through a comprehensive eye exam that involves visual acuity testing a microscopic examination of the anterior portion of the eye and tests to measure the pressure in the eye, and high-definition retinal images. Cataract Surgery is Painless and Highly Effective Many people are apprehensive about the prospect of having to get cataract surgery if it is discovered that they have cataracts. The truth is that there is nothing to worry about. Cataract surgery is one of the safest and common types of surgery. The eye is anesthetized so that the patient does not feel any pain, and the surgery itself is quick. Best of all, the vast majority of patients experience significant improvement in their vision, and all with very minimal recovery time. Cataracts Can Be Cause by Factors Other Than Age While age is by far the leading cause of cataracts, it is not the only one. Sometimes, cataracts can be congenital and may form in the womb or in early childhood. Other times, they can develop from a traumatic injury to the eye, or as a consequence of diabetes. It is important to be aware of the fact that you may be at risk for cataracts at any age. Langley Optometrists Providing Eye Exams for Cataracts Thanks to modern technology, cataracts do not pose the same problems they once did. After they’ve been diagnosed by Langley optometrists, they can be easily corrected. At Langley Optometry Clinic, we make sure to check all of our patients for signs of cataracts during their routine eye exams. Whether you need eyeglasses in Langley or you suspect that you may have a cataract, don't hesitate to contact Langley Optometry Clinic for all of your eye health concerns.