Eye cataract surgery is an important medical procedure that can improve the quality of life for many people in Canada. This surgery can correct vision problems caused by cataracts, and it can also prevent further vision loss from occurring.
Cataracts are quite a common condition that affects people as they age, causing various symptoms that can decrease one’s quality of life. If left untreated, they can result in complete blindness. Continue reading to learn more.
The Definition of Cataracts
The natural lens of a person’s eye is clear, focusing light onto the retina where an image is formed. A cataract is essentially a clouding of your eye’s lens. It affects your vision. Cataracts usually develop slowly and can begin at any age. While they may not hurt as much, vision loss from cataracts can be gradual and progressive.
Cataracts are very common in older adults, with people over age 40 being more likely to get cataracts. As of 2022, more than 2.5 million Canadians are living with cataracts, with the overall number expected to increase by about 5 million by 2031.
The Symptoms of Cataracts
Cataracts usually develop slowly and don’t disturb your vision early on. Over time, the cataract may start to grow larger and cloud more of the lens, making it tougher for light to pass through. This can cause blurry vision and make colours seem faded.
A cataract can also cause the sight of a halo around lights in your vision. Other symptoms may include considerable difficulty seeing at night and glare from bright lights, making it paramount to avoid those stressors and to seek surgery.
The Causes of Cataracts
Most cataracts are caused by aging. As people get older, the proteins in the lens begin to break down and clump together. This makes the lens become less transparent, which inevitably affects one’s vision.
Other causes of cataracts include diabetes, smoking, and certain medications such as steroids. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun can notably hasten the development of cataracts as well.
The Types of Cataract Surgery
There are two types of cataract surgery, namely phacoemulsification and laser-assisted. Phacoemulsification is the most common type of cataract surgery, utilizing ultrasound waves to break up the cataract so it can be removed via a small incision.
Meanwhile, laser-assisted cataract surgery uses a laser to make the incisions in the eye and to break up the cataract. It may be considered an option if you have a hard-to-treat cataract or if you have certain health conditions.
The Aftermath of Cataract Surgery
After the surgery, you’ll likely need to wear an eye patch for a day or two and use eye drops for several weeks. It’s recommended to avoid rubbing your eye or any other activity that could dislodge the new lens. It can take time for your vision to improve, but people who have gone through the recovery process are very happy with the results.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cataract surgery is an important procedure that can help improve your vision and quality of life. If you have cataracts, it is important to speak to your doctor about your treatment options.
Seeking to get a cataract surgery? Valley Laser Eye Centre is a vision correction center in Abbotsford, BC, with state-of-the-art technology, a comfortable setting, and amazing staff. Get in touch with us now!
This blog post does not replace medical advice and should not be implemented prior to consulting a fully certified medical professional.
