Have you recently been diagnosed with cataracts? Has the diagnosis left you a bit stressed and rattled as to what it means for your immediate and long-term eye health? These types of feelings and questions are perfectly normal to have, as it is disconcerting anytime you are diagnosed with a medical issue. To help you work through the process, here’s a look at some of the basics of a cataracts diagnosis.
It Is More Common than You May Think
Here’s what you need to know about cataracts, it isn’t uncommon and this is something that health professionals are well-versed in diagnosing and treating. By the time a person reaches the age of 80, more than 50% of people have cataracts. It is why many decide not to travel anymore. Age isn’t the only risk factor, but your risk of developing it certainly climbs the older you get. Statistics from the National Eye Institute show that cataracts surgery is one of the most common surgeries in the United States.
How Do Cataracts Form?
You may also be wondering how this happened to you. A cataract can be described as a cloudy area on your eye that impedes your vision and makes your eyes more sensitive to light. It can also cause double vision and trouble seeing clearly at night. As for the reason it forms, in most cases, it is due to changes that naturally occur in the eye as you age.
It’s important to note that cataracts can happen to one or both eyes, and the timeline can be different. This means you may have it in one eye right now and will develop it later on in the other eye or not at all.
There Are Specific Risk Factors
Even though cataracts are common in seniors, some risk factors may elevate your risk overall. These include:
- Smoking
- The use of steroids
- Drinking large quantities of alcohol
- Diabetes
- You have had eye surgery in the past or an injury
- There is a family history
- You haven’t protected your eyes while in the sun
You may have some or none of these risk factors and still develop cataracts.
How Will Your Cataracts Be Treated?
When diagnosed with any sort of health issue the first question you will likely have is how it will be treated. The good news is that there are a few treatment options available for cataracts depending on how early it is diagnosed and how severe it is.
If you are diagnosed very early on you may be told to make some simple lifestyle changes such as wearing anti-glare sunglasses, using a brighter light when you are working to help you see better, and even using a magnifying glass to read when necessary. Another treatment may be to get an updated prescription for your glasses or contacts. For those whose cataracts are more advanced surgery may be the best option.
Being Informed About Your Diagnosis
The important thing to keep in mind is that any diagnosis can seem scary at first, but the more you research it, learn and ask questions, the better informed you’ll be, which helps to dispel stress and fear.