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How Are Cataracts Treated?
There are several ways to treat cataracts depending on their severity and impact on your quality of life. For instance, if you have mild cataracts that cause your vision to become slightly blurry, wearing eyeglasses or contacts may correct the problem. Severe cataracts may require surgery to remove them.
What Does Cataract Surgery Involve?
Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure involving lens implants. During cataract surgery, a tiny incision is made on the eye and the impacted lens is removed. It is replaced with a clear, artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL) through the same incision. The entire procedure only takes about 10 minutes.
What Are the Symptoms of Cataracts?
Because cataracts develop over time, the symptoms appear slowly. The first sign of a cataract is generally hazy or blurred vision. Other symptoms of cataracts include:
Double vision
Trouble seeing well at night or in dim light
Seeing halos around headlights at night
Seeing bright colors as faded or yellowish
Light and glare sensitivity
When Should I See a Clarkson Eyecare Doctor for Cataracts?
Typically, you need to see an eye doctor once your cataracts are advanced enough that they start to significantly impact your vision. In some rare cases, cataracts can increase the risk of developing other more serious eye conditions such as glaucoma. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, schedule an eye exam at Clarkson Eyecare to diagnose your eye condition and discuss your options. We can help restore your vision.
How Does Clarkson Eyecare Diagnose Cataracts?
In the earlier stages of cataracts, they can be hard to detect and may present no symptoms at all to you. Clarkson Eyecare doctors are highly trained in the use of the latest diagnostic tools and can quickly diagnose issues with your eyes. We typically first detect cataracts during a comprehensive eye exam. We then use a series of follow-up tests to determine the severity of your cataracts and what sort of treatment is recommended. Your eye doctor will walk you through each exam while they’re being administered. Tests include:
Visual Acuity & Refraction
To measure how clearly you see and whether glasses help.
Slit-Lamp Exam
To directly examine the cornea, iris, and lens for cataract changes.
Dilated Retinal Exam (Ophthalmoscopy)
To assess cataract type/severity and overall eye health.
Imaging (Fundus Photos/OCT)
To directly examine the cornea, iris, and lens for cataract changes.
Tonometry
To check eye pressure and screen for coexisting glaucoma.
Who Can Get Cataract Surgery?
Typically, Clarkson Eyecare looks for cataract surgery candidates who meet the following criteria:
Notice worse night vision or significant glare when driving at night
Find it harder to read or complete everyday tasks clearly
Have symptoms like blurred vision or colors that look faded
Still have subpar vision even after updating your glasses and contact lenses
The Day of Cataract Surgery: Requirements and Expectations
Cataract surgery is a quick, outpatient procedure designed to safely remove the cloudy lens and restore clearer vision. You’ll be awake but comfortable, go home the same day, and start eye drops to support healing. Here’s what you can expect on the day of your surgery.
Preparation
Follow any fasting instructions; take only approved medications
Start pre-op eye drops if prescribed
Arrange a driver and light schedule (no driving day-of)
Bring your medication list, insurance/ID, and sunglasses
Avoid eye makeup, lotions, and perfume the morning of surgery
Wear comfortable, loose clothing
Arrival & Check-In
Check-in at the front desk
You’ll be taken to a waiting area
The doctor will go over the surgery plan with you
Numbing eye drops will be administered
The Procedure
The doctor will make a small incision using an excimer laser
The cloudy lens is removed
A new intraocular lens is placed
The entire procedure usually takes 10-30 minutes
Post-Surgery
You’ll receive a patch and eye shield to cover your effected eye as it heals
We will give you detailed instructions on care and medications, if needed
You’ll go home the same day as the surgery
Mild scratchiness or itchiness is to be expected
Follow-Up and Recovery
You’ll have a follow-up appointment the next day, with more check-ups in the following weeks
Wear your protective eye shield while sleeping for the first few nights
Use prescription eye drops exactly as directed
Wear sunglasses outdoors
It’s fine to return to most daily activities after a few days
Avoid heavy exercise for about 1 week
No swimming for 2 weeks
Protect the eye from dust, sand, and debris
What Causes Cataracts?
Cataracts are one of the most common vision problems, with almost 50% of Americans suffering from them. While aging is the most common cause, cataracts can also be genetic and affect people of all ages. Risk factors for cataracts include:
Diabetes
Hypertension
High blood pressure
Extensive steroid use
Significant alcohol consumption
Obesity
Smoking
High myopia
Sun exposure
Family history of cataracts
Previous eye injury or eye surgery
Frequently Asked Questions About Cataracts
Schedule an Appointment with Our Cataract Doctors
The team at Clarkson Eyecare specializes in eye diseases and ocular conditions. Routine eye exams allow our doctors to provide you with the best vision possible. If you are diagnosed with a cataract, we will work with you to determine the best treatment option for your eyes. To assess your eye health and treat cataracts, schedule an eye exam with our experts today.