A cataract is a condition in which the lens of the eye becomes progressively opaque, resulting in blurred vision, glare, or changes in the focusing of the eyes. Cataracts develop slowly in most patients, and the timing of surgery is up to the patient.
Cataracts can be monitored and vision corrected with glasses for months or sometimes years; however, when poor vision from cataracts begins to interfere with life activities, cataract surgery can improve vision in most cases. If you think you have cataracts, call us for an examination.
Symptoms of Cataracts
Following are the various signs of cataracts:
- Cloudy, blurry, or decreased vision, especially in low light situations, including needing more light to read
Appearance of halos or starbursts around light sources, most commonly from car headlights or streetlights when driving in the dark- Need to change glasses prescription frequently
- Visible yellowing or browning of the eye lens
- Double vision in a single eye
Specialized Cataract Treatment
During an eye examination, Dr. Stock can diagnose any cataract development. Currently, there is no proven way to prevent cataracts. If you are not interested in surgery but have mild cataract development, updating your prescription for glasses or contact lenses will maintain your good vision until you are ready.
As cataracts progress, they interfere with your ability to function in daily life. Surgical removal of the natural lens inside the eye and insertion of a synthetic lens during surgery is the only treatment available for visually significant cataracts. In most cases, the procedure improves vision significantly.
Before operating, Dr. Stock will discuss with you all the options for vision correction that are available during cataract surgery. He has performed cataract surgery for over twenty years and performs with the intent of providing good vision. Some patients do not need glasses after surgery, but most need glasses for near vision. Some wear glasses full time after surgery to have the best possible vision at all times.