Cataracts are a clouding or loss of transparency of the lens in the eye.
There are several causes that may lead to a cataract developing, including aging, steroid medication, diabetes and others diseases. A patient may first become aware of a decrease in their vision, or may develop sensitivity to bright lights and glare.
A visit to your opticians will allow for a formal diagnosis to be made. He or she may advise a change in your optical prescription in order to regain your visual acuity to an acceptable level, as the cataract may only be in its early stages and not be ready for referral to the hospital.
Cataract – Notice the cloudy lens;
(courtesy of National Eye Institute)
Referral to Eye Hospital
When the vision can no longer be corrected by changing your spectacles prescription, or if the cataract is affecting your daily day to day living activities, you may be asked if you would like a referral to the local Eye Hospital. There you will be assessed by an Ophthalmologist, and if surgery is advised, arrangements will be made to replace the affected lens.
Cataract surgery is one of the commonest operations performed, and the results are very effective.
After you have been discharged from the eye clinic following cataract surgery, after a small wait to allow the eye to settle, you will be advised to attend your optician’s practice for a sight test.
Remember you now will have a “new” eye so your old glasses will no longer work for you. This is when your optician will check your prescription and let you know what optical correction you will now need.
If you are at all concerned about the possibility of having a cataract, please make an appointment to visit us.
