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Writer's pictureFritzi Gros-Daillon

The Importance of Cataracts Awareness

Cataracts are a common age-related eye condition that affects millions of people worldwide, yet many do not realize how serious the condition can be. It is important to raise awareness about cataracts and the potential risks they pose so that more people can take steps to prevent, diagnose, and treat this condition.

Eye

What are Cataracts?

Cataracts are a clouding of the eye's natural lens—the part of the eye responsible for focusing light onto the retina—which leads to vision loss. This clouding is caused by clumps of proteins that accumulate in and around the lens, blocking or scattering light as it passes through. Symptoms may include blurred vision, difficulty seeing at night, increased sensitivity to glare and bright lights, double vision in one eye, fading or yellowing colors, and frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions.


Eye checkup

Diagnosing Cataracts

The best way to diagnose cataracts is by having a comprehensive eye exam. During this exam, your doctor will use special equipment to measure your visual acuity (how well you see) and check for signs of cataracts. In addition to these tests, your doctor may also dilate your pupils or perform an ultrasound scan to get a better look at the back of your eyes for any signs of cataract development.


Eye doctor

Treating Cataracts

Once cataracts are diagnosed, there are several treatment options available. Depending on the severity and progression of the condition, surgery may be recommended in order to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). This type of surgery has been shown to improve vision significantly in most cases and has a very low risk rate when performed by an experienced ophthalmologist. Other treatments include prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses with anti-reflective coating; both can help reduce symptoms associated with cataracts but will not actually cure them.


Cataract awareness is key when it comes to preventing or treating this age-related eye condition. By being aware of what causes cataracts and how they can affect vision, people can be proactive in taking steps towards prevention or early diagnosis if necessary. If you suspect you may have developed cataracts it is important to see an ophthalmologist as soon as possible for proper evaluation and treatment recommendation. Doing so could mean regaining clear vision again!

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