Cataracts occur when proteins in your eye break down and cloud your vision. Once you are 40 or older, you’re prone to suffering from this condition. If you’re currently experiencing blurred or hazy vision, our team at Eye Clinic of Sandpoint can determine if it’s due to cataracts. These FAQs provide answers to questions you may have about this eye condition.
Who’s at risk of getting cataracts?
Age is a common cause of cataracts, making seniors more likely to develop this condition. You’re also at greater risk if you have diabetes, are a frequent smoker, spend a lot of time in the sun, or have a family history of this condition.
What are the symptoms of cataracts?
Cloudy or blurred vision are the main symptoms of cataracts. You may also become sensitive to light, have poor night vision, develop double vision, see halos around lights, or lose color vision. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, contact our Sandpoint optometry clinic. Our optometrists can diagnose this condition during an eye exam.
How are cataracts treated?
In the early stages, cataracts may not impair your vision and not require any serious treatment. Once cataracts reach the stage where they’re keeping you from performing daily tasks or interfering with your way of life, your optometrists will recommend cataract surgery.
Cataract surgery entails removing the clouded lenses from your eyes and replacing them with clear, artificial lenses. It is an outpatient procedure performed by an eye surgeon. Only one eye will be treated during the first surgery. After this eye is done healing, the eye surgeon will operate on the other eye. Modern advancements in cataract surgery have made this a safe, effective means of treating cataracts and restoring your sight. At Eye Clinic of Sandpoint, we offer professional pre- and post-op care for this procedure.
How long will it take for my vision to improve and my eyes to heal?
You will see a noticeable change in your vision almost immediately after your surgery. You may experience mild discomfort for a few days. We’ll prescribe eye drops to soothe eye discomfort and protect you from eye infections during the healing process. Your eyes should heal completely within eight weeks.
Visit Us for Cataract Testing in Sandpoint, Idaho
Age-related cataracts are common in patients 50 years and older. Annual eye checkups will help us to monitor your eye health to diagnose cataracts early on for effective management. To schedule an eye exam at Eye Clinic of Sandpoint, contact us at (208) 263-8501 today.
