Cataracts describe an eye condition that appears as clouding of the natural eye lens. The clouding gets worse over time, and it can lead to blindness. Fortunately, there are treatment options that can help prevent this eventuality. 

If the condition has progressed, eye specialists recommend surgical removal of cataracts. This can help address the issue permanently. It is vital to consult an eye specialist to determine if you need surgical treatment. You can find out if you are a candidate for cataract surgery. 

When to Get Cataract Surgery

Just because you have cataracts does not mean you must get surgery. Like with all conditions, surgery should always be the last option. Many people live with cataracts that do not interfere with their daily activities. 

If you do not experience blurred vision and you can lead a productive life, you do not need to undergo surgery. But if you experience blurred vision making it difficult to perform essential tasks, you need surgical removal. Work with an eye specialist to determine whether you need surgery.

Treatment for Cataracts

Cataracts usually progress over time, and the eyesight fogging becomes worse as the cataract hardens. In many cases, cataracts are part of the natural aging process. However, some people do not get cataracts even in their senior years. 

Doctors perform surgical treatment when the condition worsens. The treatment is not ideal during the early stages of the condition. Doctors examine the patients to determine if they can benefit from the procedure. 

Symptoms of Cataracts 

Several symptoms can indicate that a person has cataracts. The symptoms include halos or glares, blurred vision that prescription lenses cannot treat, and impaired night vision. 

If colors appear less vivid than usual, it could be due to cataracts. Some people with cataracts experience white spots on the eye pupil. The symptoms often affect one eye, but they can also affect both eyes, especially as the condition progresses.

Cataracts in Both Eyes

There is currently no medication to prevent, treat, or reverse cataracts. If cataracts result in nearsightedness, prescription lenses can help reduce blurred vision. Surgical removal is the only treatment that helps restore proper vision. The surgery involves the removal of the natural eye lens. 

If the cataracts are in both eyes, doctors recommend surgery. However, doctors do not perform the surgery in both eyes at the same time; they perform it weeks apart. They do this to prevent the possibility of infection or complications that may arise in both eyes.

Candidates for Cataract Surgery

To find out if you are a candidate for cataract surgery, you need to visit an eye specialist. Advances in surgical technology have made the procedure easier and more effective. The eye lens can be removed easily at any stage of cataract development. In some cases, removing the cataract earlier rather than later may be recommended. This is because it is easier to remove the eye lens before it hardens. 

When it comes to cataract surgery, the patient must make the final decision. The doctor will need to educate the patient on the pros and cons of the surgery.

For more on being a candidate for cataract surgery, visit Eastside Eye Physicians, PC, at our office in Shelby Township or St. Clair Shores, Michigan. You can call (586) 247-2020 or (586) 200-1905 today to schedule an appointment.