Guide To Cataract Surgery
Cataracts are a serious eye condition. A cataract occurs when the lens becomes clouded when it should remain clear. This cloudy covering on the lens causes trouble with visual performance, making it difficult to drive a car, see another individual's facial expression, and read. Cataracts develop slowly over several years and usually do not cause any symptoms during the early stages. Common symptoms of cataracts include clouded vision, dim vision, blurred vision, vision problems at night, glare sensitivity, and seeing halos around lights. Others are frequent prescription eyewear alterations, yellowing of colors, and double vision in one eye.
Many patients will wear prescription glasses for cataracts. They are the best non-surgical treatment for cataracts. Although many individuals may want a natural cataract treatment, the best option is surgery. Surgery is quite effective, and doctors may even use laser eye treatment for cataracts as part of the procedure. Of course, patients must understand cataract surgery before they undergo it.
When It Is Performed
Cataract surgery is a common medical procedure because cataracts are one of the most prevalent causes of visual impairment in individuals over sixty years old. This type of surgery is performed on a patient who has cataracts that have progressed so much that other treatments are no longer effective. The surgery is needed when vision problems disrupt an individual's everyday life and activities. In some cases, the presence of cataracts can cause problems with the treatment of another eye problem. Examples of these eye problems are diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration.
Surgery becomes necessary when other eye conditions cannot be treated due to cataracts. Cataract surgery is often performed at the same time as another eye surgery because it is more convenient. Another reason is that cataracts have to be removed to complete the other eye procedure.
Learn about how to prepare for cataract surgery next.
Preparing For Surgery
Patients can prepare for cataract surgery in several ways to ensure their procedure and recovery go smoothly. The doctor will often perform an ultrasound to evaluate the shape and size of the patient's eye a week before the surgery. The patient will need to arrange transportation to and from the facility where the procedure will take place. Patients taking certain medications may be advised to stop taking them several days before their surgery. These medications include anticoagulants, antiplatelets, acetylsalicylic acid, and some stimulants.
Most patients must refrain from eating or drinking anything during the twelve hours before their surgery. The night before the surgery, patients may be given eye drops or other medications. They must follow specific instructions for these drops. An individual will be advised not to consume any alcoholic beverages the night before they have cataract surgery. Some patients may be prescribed a medication to take the night before the procedure if they are too anxious to get the proper amount of sleep.
Get the full information on how the procedure works next.