When you go to the eye doctor for your regular exam, the last thing you probably want or expect is to be diagnosed with cataracts. However, cataracts are swiftly becoming the most common eye disorder affecting people in the United States. Receiving the diagnosis is just the first step in your journey. The next issue you need to deal with is how to treat your cataracts. Learn the options available for treatment and get started right away.
Start Protecting Your Eyes
Just because you are diagnosed with cataracts does not mean you need major interventions right away. In the early stages of cataract development, your treatments will actually involve methods to prevent your condition from worsening.
The best way to slow the progression of your cataracts is to start protecting your eyes. This means wearing sunglasses anytime you are outdoors. The harsh ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun can actually cause a great deal of damage to the lenses of your eyes. In fact, sun exposure is considered to be a cause of cataracts.
So, invest in a pair of high quality sunglasses. The higher the UV rating on your sunglasses, the better the protection they provide.
Update Your Glasses Prescription
When you get your cataract diagnosis, your eye doctor will probably recommend a new glasses prescription. Bifocals are a common treatment option for cataracts. They help you to see as well as possible in spite of the clouding of your lenses.
If your eye doctor does not immediately recommend a new glasses prescription, ask if this treatment option will work for you. New glasses are a temporary fix, but can help you to continue with your daily tasks in spite of your cataracts.
Cataract Surgery
The only permanent solution for cataracts is cataract surgery. Luckily, you do not have to undergo surgery immediately following your diagnosis. It can actually be delayed for years if your cataracts are not very far advanced, and if you take preventive measures such as wearing sunglasses.
Cataract surgery involves the complete removal of the lens of your eye. This is done through a small incision in the tissue of your eye. The lens is removed and it is replaced with an implant to maintain and improve vision in your eye.
Because you receive an artificial implant through your cataract surgery, aftercare will be extremely important and lasts several weeks. However, once you are healed, your vision will be better than ever.
As you can see, the treatment options for your cataracts range from basic lifestyle changes to surgical interventions. As you deal with your new cataract diagnosis, just remember that you can and likely will get your eyesight and health restored through these treatments. Visit an ophthalmologist like Tri State Ophthalmology today to discuss surgery options.
