A Clearer View

Latest treatment options and news about cataracts, dry eye syndrome and other eye care topics.

Macular Edema and Diabetes: Protecting Your Vision

by Damion Wasylow 24 October 2024 06:01 AM

senior man struggling to read paper with eyeglasses
Macular edema is a very real concern, particularly for people with diabetes, as 1-in-3 diabetics show some sign of the condition. If you have diabetes, and haven’t been to the eye doctor recently, you need to know the early signs of macular edema because allowing it to progress can lead to permanent vision loss or even blindness.

Early diagnosis can allow you to undergo treatment before your condition worsens.

What is Macular Edema?

The macula is a pigmented area in the center of the retina at the back of your eye. Macular edema is when fluids leak into the macula, causing it to swell and eventually distort your vision.

Macular Edema Early Warning Signs

Typically, macular edema doesn’t cause pain and symptoms may be difficult to detect, allowing the issue to progress. These symptoms often include blurred central vision, washed-out colors and difficulty reading. Usually, your peripheral vision will remain clear, so it’s really the central vision that you’ll notice is just not right.

Floaters and flashers can also present themselves, although the mere presence of them does not always indicate diabetic eye complications.

As mentioned earlier, left untreated, macular edema can cause permanent vision loss or blindness.

Macular Edema Risk Factors

Diabetes puts you at a much higher risk of macular edema, but you can also suffer from this condition if you are taking certain medications or have:

You may be able to reduce your risk by maintaining a healthy diet to keep your cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar under control. Remaining active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also help, as can quitting smoking.

Macular Edema Diagnosis

Comprehensive eye exams are your first line of defense to protect your vision from macular edema - or any eye condition.

If macular edema is suspected, your eye doctor will perform extensive tests to diagnose your condition, potentially including a dilated eye exam, optical coherence tomography or fluorescein angiography to see if there’s any leakage or macula swelling.

Macular Edema Treatment

If you do, in fact, have macular edema, early-stage treatments may include injections, pills or eye drops to stop the leakage and swelling.

If your macular edema is caused by retinal vein occlusion or diabetes, laser treatment may be recommended. Eye surgery, called vitrectomy, may be necessary to remove the excess fluid from your eyes in severe cases.

If you suspect you may have macular edema, or if it’s just been a while since your last comprehensive eye exam, contact North Florida Cataract Specialists and Vision Care today at 352-373-4300.

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5 Tips for Overcoming Cataract Surgery Anxiety

by Damion Wasylow 24 October 2024 05:42 AM

confident senior woman in sweater and eyeglasses
More than half of Americans aged 80 and older will have cataracts. While cataract surgery is the only effective way to treat this common age-related condition, fear and anxiety can make some people hesitant to have the procedure.

If you have anxiety about cataract surgery, these five tips can help you overcome your concerns.

1. Research the Outcomes

Cataract surgery is one of the most effective and commonly performed surgical procedures in the world, with a nearly 99% success rate. More than 3 million successful cataract surgeries are performed in the U.S. each year. Complications are rare and recovery is typically fast and painless.

2. Choose a Cataract Specialist

Cataract surgery is performed by eye surgeons known as ophthalmologists, some of whom specialize in the procedure. These cataract experts, including Dr. Gregory Snodgrass and Dr. Todd Endicott, have specialized training and engage in continuing education to stay on top of the latest developments and leverage the latest technology. As such, they have deeper knowledge and typically more experience performing the procedure.

3. Know What to Expect During the Procedure

Learning more about the cataract surgery procedure will demystify things and help you feel more prepared. For example, did you know that the procedure typically only takes 15-25 minutes per eye? It will be over and done before you even know it.

This article sheds light on the entire process: Laser Cataract Surgery Procedure: What to Expect.

You should also feel encouraged to ask any questions or discuss any concerns with your eye doctor.

4. Bring a Loved One With You

Having a supportive friend or loved one at your side can make the entire process less stressful. Consider bringing someone along for your pre-surgical appointments and on surgery day. Their presence, care and support can help ease your anxiety. Plus, you’ll need someone to drive you home following the procedure and the day after.

5. Don’t Lose Sight of the Benefits

Cataract surgery is the only effective way to restore your vision. The impacts of that go far beyond just being able to see better. In fact, studies show that post-cataract surgery, patients often experience benefits including improved mood, renewed life enjoyment, increased independence, fewer injuries from accidents and falls, and longer, happier lives.

While the idea of surgery may be scary for some, the benefits far outweigh the risks.

To schedule your cataract evaluation, contact North Florida Cataract Specialists and Vision Care today at 352-373-4300.

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5 Essential Eye Care Tips for Seniors to Maintain Healthy Vision

by Damion Wasylow 6 October 2024 06:27 AM

senior friend group smiling together outdoors

We’re all getting older, and your eyes age with you. While some factors are beyond your control, as a senior, there are multiple steps you can take to proactively care for your eyes and help maintain healthy vision for the rest of your life.

1. Schedule Regular Comprehensive Eye Exams

The American Optometric Association (AOA) recommends that anyone 50 and older have a comprehensive eye exam at least once per year or as recommended. If you’re younger than 50, you’ll need to have an exam every two years and only need to go in for an exam annually if you’re at risk.

Visual acuity is just one aspect of vision and eye health that will be checked during a comprehensive eye exam. Your local optometrist will look for refractive eye errors, common eye diseases, ocular motility and general eye health.

2. Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays

If you spend time outdoors and in the sun, you should always wear UV-protecting sunglasses. Wearing a hat to block some of the sun’s rays is another great option. Protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays is critical for keeping your eyes looking and feeling young.

3. Remain Physically Active

Exercise, even walking regularly, is good for you at any age, but you may not immediately connect it with eye health. Truth is, your eyes need oxygen intake and proper blood circulation to remain healthy, and that requires good overall cardiovascular health. Exercise can also help you stay in a healthy weight range, reducing your risk of diabetes, a known contributor to serious eye problems.

Consult with your doctor to ensure that you’re following an exercise routine that is within your physical ability.

4. Manage Medical Conditions

As you age, the odds increase that you will be affected by some type of medical condition, even if you follow every possible health recommendation. Managing these medical conditions can help you maintain healthy eyes for years to come.

As mentioned above, diabetes is a condition that poses critical risks to eye health. People with diabetes are more prone to retinopathy, macular edema, cataracts and glaucoma.

5. Kick Bad Habits

Some bad habits are worse than others when it comes to eye health, and smoking is near the top of the list. Smoking greatly increases your risk of eye-related issues including cataracts, macular degeneration, uveitis and dry eye syndrome.

Eating healthy, getting more sleep and getting moving are all great ways to further help you maintain healthy vision into your 60s, 70s, 80s and beyond.

If you follow the eye care tips above, you’ll be well on your way to maintaining healthy eyes for the rest of your life. Small, incremental changes can lead to a lifetime of good eye health and vision. And scheduling an eye exam is a great place to start.

To schedule your comprehensive eye exam, contact North Florida Cataract Specialists and Vision Care today at 352-373-4300.

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Preparing for Your Cataract Surgery: Tips for a Stress-Free Experience

by Damion Wasylow 20 September 2024 07:29 AM

senior man checking into eye surgery center for cataract surgery
Although cataract surgery is known to be one of the safest and most effective surgical procedures available, it’s natural to feel a little apprehensive prior to any surgery. Still, there are steps you can take to reduce the tension and set yourself up for a stress-free cataract surgery experience.

1. Select a Cataract Specialist for Your Surgeon

Selecting an ophthalmologist who specializes in cataract surgery is always a wise choice. Their specialized training, state-of-the-art technology and continual focus on keeping up with the latest in cataract treatment options equip them to deliver the best outcomes.

In Gainesville, North Florida Cataract Specialists and Vision Care features two industry-leading ophthalmologists in Dr. Gregory Snodgrass and Dr. Todd J. Endicott. These cataract specialists have decades of cataract experience and have performed tens of thousands of successful cataract surgeries.

2. Take Your Pre-surgery Health Preparations Seriously

Educating yourself on what to expect leading up to the day of surgery will help calm your nerves when the big day comes.

Prior to scheduling your surgery, you’ll discuss any known medical conditions with your eye surgeon. This may inform some precautions your surgeon will recommend.

Your surgeon may also recommend using specialized eye drops prior to surgery. And, as is common with most surgical procedures, your eye surgeon will likely specify that you fast for 12 hours or more prior to surgery and that you refrain from consuming alcohol for at least 24 hours prior.

3. Know What to Expect on the Day of Your Surgery

Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure, meaning you won’t stay overnight, and thus will need someone to drive you home the same day. Be sure that you have a reliable driver who can bring you to the office and return you home safely. 

Before and after surgery, drops will be placed in your eye.

Your surgeon will remove the cloudy lens in your eye and replace it with an artificial one. The actual surgical procedure only lasts about 30 minutes or so, but you can expect to be in the ambulatory surgical center for 3-4 hours, including prep time and post anesthesia recovery.

4. Understand Cataract Surgery Aftercare

Following surgery, you’ll be given antibiotics and anti-inflammatory eye drops to minimize swelling and the risk of infection. For the first week, you’ll wear sunglasses when outside and an eye shield while you sleep. 

You’ll have multiple aftercare appointments to allow your eye surgeon to examine your eye and ensure it’s healing properly.

Cataract surgery is one of the most performed types of surgery in the United States. If you follow our tips for a stress-free experience, you can go into your procedure prepared and confident.

If you or someone you love may have cataracts or is actively considering cataract surgery, contact North Florida Cataract Specialists and Vision Care today at 352-373-4300.

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Is it Cataracts or General Age-Related Vision Decline?

by Damion Wasylow 9 August 2024 01:18 AM

middle-aged woman in squinting to read computer screen
As we age, our vision changes. You may have trouble seeing things up close or it may take a little longer to adjust in low light. Because many eye diseases share similar symptoms (at least in the early stages), it can be difficult to determine whether you’re experiencing natural age-related vision decline or cataracts.

For this reason, it’s so important to follow the American Optometric Association’s recommendation of annual eye exams for anyone over the age of 60.

A comprehensive eye exam is the best way to determine the root cause of your vision changes. There are, however, some signs and symptoms that can clue you in as to whether you’re suffering from cataracts or another age-related condition.

Classic Cataract Symptoms

As cataracts progress, proteins in the lens of the eye start to break down and clump together, producing cataract symptoms that may include:. 

  • Double vision: You may start seeing two images of one object. Double vision can also be caused by other issues, but if it only affects one eye, this is a likely sign of cataracts.
  • Halos around lights: When driving or walking at night, you may notice that headlights and streetlights have a halo or starburst effect around them. This halo effect occurs because the cataract clouds the lens and causes light to scatter.
  • Blurry vision: Cataracts can cause the center area of your vision to be blurry, dimmed or foggy. This blurry or foggy effect occurs because the proteins in your lens become cloudy and make it more difficult to focus any light that enters your eye.
  • Muted or faded colors: Sometimes, cataracts can cause colors to appear dull or faded. This tinted effect is caused by the proteins that make cataracts cloudy, which have a brownish hue.
  • Light sensitivity: An early symptom of cataracts is light sensitivity. When your eye lens isn’t clear, it causes incoming light to scatter. Along with the halo effect we discussed earlier, this scattering effect can also make you more sensitive to bright light.

Non-Cataract Age-Related Vision Changes

Several other types of vision changes are increasingly common as we age, including:

  • Age-related macular degeneration, or ARMD. Like cataracts, ARMD can also cause central vision loss. However, peripheral vision remains unaffected.
  • Glaucoma, which is caused by damage to the optic nerve. This condition results in a loss of peripheral vision and, if left untreated, may even cause total blindness.
  • Dry eye syndrome, which can become a chronic problem and make it difficult to see clearly.
  • Diabetic retinopathy, which can develop in individuals with diabetes. It occurs due to progressive damage to the blood vessels that nourish the retina.

While vision changes and eye diseases can develop at any stage of life, individuals over the age of 60 are at a higher risk. Regular comprehensive eye exams can help you and your eye doctor detect and treat these issues early on to preserve your vision as best possible.

To schedule your comprehensive eye exam, contact North Florida Cataract Specialists and Vision Care today at 352-373-4300.

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5 Most Common Children's Vision Concerns

by Damion Wasylow 9 August 2024 01:10 AM

child in glasses grinning in classroom
Estimates suggest that 25% of children in the U.S. suffer from a vision disorder. Sadly, these problems often go undetected simply because the child doesn’t know how to articulate that something is wrong. So, it’s important for parents to be proactive by scheduling their children for regular, comprehensive eye exams.

The Mayo Clinic recommends children should have their first eye exam between the ages of 3 and 5 and, if even everything is clear, have follow up exams every one to two years. 

Between exams, if you notice any signs that your child’s vision is limited, it’s imperative to bring them in for an exam. Early intervention can prevent further eye strain or issues along the way. 

5 Children’s Vision Concerns Parents Need to Know About 

1. Trouble Seeing in School

Sometimes, poor performance in school is related to a child’s vision rather than any lack of attention or failure to study. If your child complains that they can’t see what the teacher is writing or can’t read what’s in their books, your child may need glasses. This simple fix could make a major impact on their academic future.

2. Eye Rubbing or Excessive Blinking

Eye irritation related to pet dander, pollen or other allergies is common in children, often resulting in frequent blinking and/or eye rubbing. These behaviors can also be related to foreign bodies in the eye, nearsightedness or other issues. An eye exam can help identify the root cause. Over-the-counter antihistamines and warm compresses can work wonders on allergens or other irritants. Corrective lenses can help if your child is showing signs of refractive error.

3. Floaters

Floaters are small spots, "globs", or clouds "floating" in your field of vision. Everyone has these to some degree. And while most are not a concern, in some cases, they can be a sign of eye inflammation or a retinal tear. If your child experiences vision loss or flashing lights while having floaters, be sure to schedule an exam immediately.

4. Focusing with a Chin Down or Up

If your child focuses with their chin down, it may not be a sign of them thinking intently. Often, if a child is farsighted, they’ll put their chin down when focusing. But, if the child’s chin is up, it may mean that they have nearsightedness. These types of refractive errors are typically easily corrected with prescription eyeglasses.

5. Common Signs of Poor Vision

Simple observation is often the best way to initially identify potential vision problems in children. Your child may need an eye exam if they:

  • Squint a lot
  • Sit close to the television
  • Close one eye when reading
  • Experience red, watery eyes often
  • Complain of eye sensitivity or pain
  • Demonstrate attention issues, particularly when reading 

If you observe any of the concerns outlined here, it’s never too early to schedule your child for a comprehensive eye exam.

At North Florida Cataract Specialists and Vision Care, our talented physicians and staff offer complete eye care for the whole family. Contact us today at 352-373-4300 to schedule your child’s eye exam.

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Understanding Age-Related Eye Conditions: Cataracts, ARMD and More

by Damion Wasylow 2 August 2024 07:05 AM

happy senior woman posing at home computer desk
As we age, our eyes undergo changes that can affect vision and overall eye health. Age-related eye conditions, including cataracts, age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), glaucoma and dry eye syndrome, are common among older adults. Left untreated, they can significantly impact quality of life. Better understanding these conditions can help you recognize when it’s time to schedule an appointment with an eye doctor.

Cataracts

Cataracts are one of the most common age-related eye conditions, affecting millions of Americans over the age of 60. A cataract occurs when the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, leading to blurred vision, glare and difficulty seeing in low light. While cataracts often develop slowly over time, they eventually interfere with daily activities and impact quality of life.

Fortunately, cataract surgery is a highly effective treatment for cataracts. During the cataract surgical procedure, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens, restoring clear vision. Cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed surgeries worldwide and has a high success rate, with the vast majority of patients experiencing significant improvement in vision following surgery.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD)

Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) is another common age-related eye condition, particularly among individuals over the age of 50. In fact, it’s the leading cause of blindness among seniors.

ARMD affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. As ARMD progresses, it can cause blurred or distorted vision, difficulty recognizing faces, and a dark or empty area in the center of vision.

While there is currently no cure for ARMD, early detection and treatment can help slow the progression of the disease and preserve remaining vision. Treatment options for ARMD may include medications, laser therapy and vision rehabilitation services. Regular eye exams are crucial for detecting ARMD in its early stages when treatment is most effective.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions characterized by increased pressure within the eye, which can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss if left untreated. However, glaucoma can also occur even when eye pressure is normal. Glaucoma often develops gradually and may not cause noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss has occurred.

Treatment for glaucoma typically involves lowering intraocular pressure to prevent further damage to the optic nerve and potentially prevent blindness. This may be achieved through medications, laser therapy or surgery, depending on the severity of the condition.

Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that becomes more prevalent with age. It occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to symptoms such as dryness, irritation and redness. Dry eye syndrome can be exacerbated by factors such as aging, hormonal changes and certain medications.

Treatment for dry eye syndrome may include artificial tears, prescription medications, or in more severe cases, procedures to block tear drainage or stimulate tear production. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as staying hydrated, avoiding dry environments and taking regular breaks from screens can help alleviate symptoms of dry eye syndrome.

If you or someone you love experiences any type of eye discomfort or vision loss, schedule a comprehensive eye exam as early as possible. Early detection of common age-related eye conditions like those described above may help reduce or prevent long-term vision loss.

Contact North Florida Cataract Specialists and Vision Care today at 352-373-4300 to schedule your appointment.

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Cataract Surgery: Safe, Effective, Life-Changing

by Damion Wasylow 2 August 2024 06:57 AM

senior man talking with eye surgeon in office
Facing the prospect of cataract surgery can be a daunting experience for many. The thought of undergoing any surgical procedure involving the eyes can understandably cause anxiety and uncertainty. It’s important, however, to understand that cataract surgery is not only safe and effective but can also be truly life-changing for those suffering from cataracts. 

So, if you or someone you love may need cataract surgery, this article should offer you both comfort and hope. 

Understanding Cataracts

Before delving into the details of cataract surgery, let's first understand what cataracts are. Cataracts occur when the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, leading to blurred vision, glare and difficulty seeing in low light. Cataracts are most often a common result of aging, although cataracts can also develop due to factors including genetics, trauma, or certain medical conditions.

The Importance of Surgery

When cataracts significantly impact vision to the point where they start to interfere with daily activities, surgery may be recommended, and surgery is the only effective treatment for cataracts. Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial lens known as an intraocular lens (IOL). This procedure is one of the most commonly performed surgeries worldwide and has an incredibly high success rate.

Safety First

One of the primary concerns for anyone considering surgery is safety. Rest assured, cataract surgery is an extremely safe procedure, with minimal risks involved. According to the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS), the overall complication rate for cataract surgery is less than 1%. Furthermore, the chances of serious complications are less than 0.1%.

Advanced technologies, such as laser-assisted cataract surgery, have revolutionized the procedure, leading to faster recovery times and better outcomes.

Life-Changing Results

Not only does cataract surgery improve vision quality, it can also enhance overall quality of life. The significantly improved vision that typically follows cataract surgery allows patients to once again enjoy activities such as reading, driving and spending time with loved ones without the limitations of cataracts.

Studies have shown that cataract surgery is also associated with decreased risk of falls and fractures in older adults, as well as improvements in mood and cognitive function.

With the expertise of a skilled team on your side, like the experienced ophthalmologists of North Florida Cataract Specialists and Vision Care, cataract surgery is not something to fear but rather an opportunity for improved vision and quality of life. 

If you or a loved one is considering cataract surgery, contact North Florida Cataract Specialists and Vision Care today at 352-373-4300 to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you see the world more clearly.

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Expert Advice on Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Prevention and Care Strategies

by Damion Wasylow 2 August 2024 06:09 AM

senior couple laughing together on the couch
Nearly 20 million Americans have Age-Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD), making it a leading cause of vision loss, particularly among older adults. ARMD occurs naturally when a part of the retina called the macula is damaged. The macula is responsible for central vision, so this damage significantly impacts daily activities like reading, driving, and recognizing faces.

Understanding ARMD

ARMD presents in two forms, dry and wet.

Dry ARMD, is the more common type, representing about 80% of total ARMD cases. With dry ARMD, parts of the macula get thinner and tiny clumps of protein form. This form of ARMD can progress slowly through the course of multiple years.

Wet ARMD is the less common form, but its impact is more immediate. With wet ARMD, abnormal blood vessels that grow under the retina begin to leak blood or other fluids. The scarring this produces can lead to rapid vision loss.

ARMD Risk Factors

Several factors increase a person’s risk of developing ARMD. Age, genetics, smoking, high blood pressure, obesity and prolonged sun exposure can all play a role. Understanding these ARMD risk factors is the first step in prevention.

ARMD Prevention Strategies

While age and genetics are unchangeable, lifestyle adjustments can significantly reduce your risk of ARMD:

  • Diet – Eating fruits, green, leafy vegetables, fish, nuts and other foods high in antioxidants can help reduce your ARMD risk. 
  • Exercise – Exercising regularly can improve your cardiovascular health and reduce obesity and hypertension (high blood pressure), which are linked to ARMD. 
  • Sun Exposure – Wearing sunglasses with ultraviolet protection while outdoors helps prevent retina damage.
  • Smoking – Quitting smoking is one of the most effective steps you can take to reduce your risk of ARMD, as studies show it can cut your risk by as much as 50%

Regular Comprehensive Eye Exams

Early detection of ARMD is crucial. Regular comprehensive eye exams, especially after age 50, can help detect ARMD in its early stages. These exams are vital for monitoring changes in your vision, including the health of your macula.

Treatment and Care

While there's currently no cure for ARMD, treatments can slow its progression and, in some cases, improve vision:

  • For Dry ARMD: A specific blend of vitamins and minerals, known as AREDS or AREDS2 (Age-Related Eye Disease Study), has been shown to delay progression of intermediate to advanced dry ARMD, allowing patients to maintain vision for longer.
  • For Wet ARMD: Anti-VEGF (anti vascular endothelial growth factor) injections are commonly used to reduce the growth of abnormal blood vessels and slow leakage. These injections provide vision stabilization in 90% of wet ARMD cases and promote improved vision in nearly 33%. Thermal laser therapy or photodynamic therapy can also help. 

If you or someone you love is experiencing vision loss, has known ARMD, or if it’s just been a while since your last comprehensive eye exam, contact the vision experts at North Florida Cataract Specialists and Vision Care today at 352-373-4300 to schedule an appointment.

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5 Signs You Might Have Cataracts…and What You Can Do About It

by Damion Wasylow 2 July 2024 06:24 AM

senior woman smiling while watching tablet
More than 22 million Americans have cataracts. While cataracts typically develop as a natural part of aging, that doesn’t mean you can’t do anything about it. Recognizing the early signs of cataracts can lead to timely intervention and treatment and lifestyle changes may even reduce your risk.

Cataract Symptoms

While cataracts can be congenital (present from birth) or brought on by injury, the condition typically develops slowly over time as people age. By age 80, more than 50% of people have some degree of cataract. By 95, cataracts affect nearly 100% of people. Common symptoms that could indicate cataracts include:

1. Clouded, Blurred, or Dim Vision: One of the most noticeable signs of cataracts is a gradual reduction in the clarity of your vision. It may begin as a slight blur or like looking through a fogged-up window.

2. Difficulty with Night Vision: Cataracts can make it harder to see in low-light conditions. You might find it challenging to drive at night or move around in dimly lit areas.

3. Sensitivity to Light and Glare: You may find sunlight or bright indoor lighting uncomfortable, or you may experience halos around lights, which can be particularly noticeable when driving at night.

4. Frequent Changes in Vision Prescription: An unexpected need to frequently update your eyeglass or contact lens prescription can be a tell-tale sign of cataracts. The clouding lens affects your vision, necessitating these changes.

5. Fading or Yellowing Colors: You might notice that colors seem faded, yellowish or less vibrant than they used to be, as the clouded lens acts as a filter, dulling the intensity of colors.

Cataract Prevention

While cataracts can’t be prevented entirely, or their progression reversed once they begin, there are things you can do to reduce your risk.

Limit Exposure to Sunlight – Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can contribute to cataract development, so always wear UV-blocking sunglasses when outdoors in sunny weather.

Be Selective with Medications and Limit Alcohol – Corticosteroids, miotics and triparanol and some other medications can induce or increase the risk of cataract development. Talk with your physician to weigh those risks. Heavy alcohol intake may also play a role in the formation of cataracts.

Quit Smoking – Smoking cigarettes has been shown to double a person’s risk of developing nuclear sclerotic cataracts and triple the risk of developing subscapular cataracts.

Cataract Treatment

Surgery is the only way to treat cataracts. Thankfully, cataract surgery is among the safest, most common and reliably successful procedures available. 

The procedure involves replacing the cataract damaged eye lens with an artificial lens implant. Surgery can be performed using traditional surgical techniques or laser-assisted, with the latter offering greater precision, faster, pain-free recovery and better long-term prognosis.

An experienced cataract surgeon will be able to advise you on the proper timing for cataract surgery, as patients can typically delay the procedure until vision loss substantially affects their enjoyment of daily activities.

If you believe you may have cataracts, a comprehensive eye exam is the best way to know for sure. Contact North Florida Cataract Specialists and Vision Care today at 352-373-4300 to schedule your appointment. 

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