For being so common, there are still a lot of myths and misconceptions surrounding cataracts. At Loden Vision Center, we want all of our patients to be properly informed when it comes to their eyes, and the conditions that can affect them. To increase cataract awareness and knowledge, let us dispel a few common myths and misconceptions about cataracts and cataract surgery.
Myth: Cataracts must be fully mature before they can be removed.
Fact: Cataracts can be removed at any time, although some doctors will prefer to wait until the cataract is more developed. At Loden Vision Center in Nashville, Tennessee, we recommend that cataracts be removed when they start to interfere with daily life. As the cataract develops and hardens, cataract surgery becomes more difficult and a little more risky. It is best to remove cataracts before they get too mature.
Myth: Only elderly people develop cataracts.
Fact: Cataracts are most common in people who are 65 years and older, but they can also occur in younger people. This usually happens as a complication of other conditions such as diabetes, or previous eye injury. On very rare occasions, cataracts can be present at birth, called congenital cataracts.
Myth: Cataracts can occur again after being removed.
Fact: Cataracts can not recur once they have been removed. However, the intra-ocular lens that replaced your cataract-affected lens can develop a slight haze, similar to that of a cataract. This is called posterior capsular opacification (PCO). PCO can cause blurry vision, but can be treated with a quick laser treatment.
Myth: Cataract surgery is painful and dangerous.
Fact: Cataract surgery is among the safest of all eye procedures. With modern advances in technology, cataract surgery is safer today than it ever has been. What once required an expensive and lengthy stay in the hospital is now a quick, outpatient procedure. You will feel no pain during your procedure. Your doctor will administer topical anesthetic and give you a mild sedative to relax.
Myth: Cataracts can be prevented.
Fact: Unfortunately, cataracts cannot necessarily be prevented, especially if you are genetically predisposed to developing them. As we age, our environment and health take their toll on our bodies, with our eyes being no exception. Aging is a fact of life and not much can be done to prevent cataract development. Some factors may put you are a higher risk for developing cataracts, however. Smoking, drinking, large amount of UV ray exposure, injury, and bad overall health can all contribute to cataract development.
Myth: Cataracts cause irreversible blindness.
Fact: This is simply not true. Many people do not realize that cataracts are completely treatable. In fact, for some patients, their vision after cataract surgery is better than before they even had cataracts!
If you are interested in cataract surgery or have any questions, contact our office at Loden Vision and schedule a consultation. Cataracts are easily treatable, so why live with them? Call Loden Vision’s Nashville, TN location at (615) 859-3937 to schedule your first cataract consultation!
