Cataract Awareness
1) A cataract is a clouding of the crystalline lens that can impair vision clarity. Cataracts are a natural outcome of aging. Cataracts are a frequent eye disease that can develop purely as a result of growing older. One or both eyes may be affected by cataracts. It's critical to undergo frequent eye exams, especially if you're over 55, to ensure that cataracts don't impair your eyesight.
2) Cataracts are caused by a variety of factors other than age. A person's lifestyle and behavior can also have an impact. Aside from age, cataracts can be caused by specific hereditary and physical characteristics, as well as certain lifestyle choices. There are a few things that can make you more likely to get a cataract:
- Family history of cataracts
- Excessive sunlight exposure
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Obesity
3) Two lifestyle modifications that may help reduce your risk of cataracts are wearing UV-blocking sunglasses and consuming foods high in Vitamin C. Cataracts cannot be prevented, however they can be reduced by taking proactive measures to safeguard your eyes. When outdoors on a sunny day, always wear UV-blocking sunglasses or a hat, and eat a well-balanced diet rich in vision-supporting foods.
4) Over 70% of people over the age of 75 have a cataract or have had cataract surgery. Cataracts are quite frequent, owing to the fact that they are usually age-related. Cataract surgery is used to remove the clouded lens and restore eyesight in many patients who develop a cataract.
5) Cataracts are the most prominent cause of blindness worldwide. Cataracts can cause partial or total blindness if left untreated. This, combined with the fact that cataracts can develop as a result of aging, makes it a severe condition if not treated early.
6) The number of people with cataracts in the United States is anticipated to double to 50 million by 2050. According to Pew Research, 10,000 baby boomers will turn 65 every day between 2010 and 2019. The number of cataract cases is predicted to rise naturally as the vast baby boomer group and subsequent generations age.
7) Cataract surgery is almost painless and takes less than 30 minutes on average. Cataract surgery is a rapid and effective way to treat them. An artificial intraocular lens is used to replace the natural lens of the eye (IOL). The patient can now see perfectly again thanks to the new lens.
8) Cataract surgery is the most common surgical procedure performed in the United States each year. Because cataracts are so widespread, and because the condition is so easily treated with such a high success rate, cataract surgery has become quite popular. Patients with cataracts or who detect their vision becoming blurry or the surface of their eye(s) becoming clouded should get an eye test as soon as possible.
9) Cataract surgery has been found to increase quality of life and minimize the chance of falling in addition to enhancing vision. Better vision allows you to get back to doing the things you enjoy, and you won't have to worry as much about impaired eyesight contributing to a dangerous fall.
No two eyes are alike, and we pride ourselves on the care and precision that we take with each of your eyes. We respect the trust given to us to treat your eye conditions and hope that you will have the best visual outcome possible. Please feel free to bring up any questions and discuss with us any concerns you have. We can be reached at 949-645-2250 and a physician is on call 24 hours a day.