Cataracts is a common eye condition that is often discussed when people discuss eye surgery and procedures. As a result, people tend to think it may be one of the more serious eye health issues that can lead to blindness. However, cataracts is actually quite common and easy to repair if properly diagnosed. There are several symptoms that you may notice when you are dealing with cataracts and tests that can help make the diagnosis.
Common Symptoms of Cataracts
As with any ailment, some symptoms of cataracts are more common than others. The key is to remember that most symptoms develop slowly and the change will be quite gradual. One of the most common symptoms is cloudy, blurry or foggy vision. Some may say they feel as though there is a film covering their eye. In addition, you may have a severe problem with glare at night and during the day. Things like oncoming headlights, or streetlights may cause you to experience momentary driving issues or sight problems. Double vision and even the way in which you see color may occur as the result of developing or developed cataracts. You may even find that your corrective lenses are no longer helping correct vision issues that you have always had. None of these symptoms are definitive of cataracts, however, experiencing them should spark you to have the conversation with your eye doctor.
Diagnosing Cataracts
Once you have noticed symptoms, it is wise to bring the symptoms of cataracts and your questions to your eye doctor for an exam. Your doctor will begin with his own series of questions, which is typical with any type of diagnostic appointment. He will likely wish to examine your eyes with and without your corrective lenses to determine if you eyesight is getting worse than it had been. Then, the fun part begins. Your doctor will need to dilate your pupils to truly see what is going on with your eyes and all of its moving parts. As much as most people dislike dilating, it can be one of the most useful tools an eye doctor has to diagnose a problem. This is when the doctor will be able to see the film over your eyes and assess the issues it is causing. He or she will then be able to determine the best course of action for you to correct the issue.
Treatment Options
Typically, once the issue of cataracts is affecting your vision and it can no longer be helped by an upgraded corrective lens prescription, it may be time to consider surgery. The good news is that cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure and is extremely common. Once the procedure is done, you will see better and likely feel more confident in your vision.
Summary
If you are experiencing any of the above mentioned symptoms and are ready to speak to an eye doctor about this issues, contact the experts at Rittenhouse Eye Associates today. Our doctors are ready to sit with you, listen to your concerns, and help you develop a plan of action to improve your vision, thereby improving your quality of life.
