Cataracts
Cataracts are a condition where the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, resulting in blurred vision and other sight-related issues. Most cases of cataracts are related to oxidation of the natural crystalline lens located inside the eye due to aging, as well as UV exposure over time. There are some cataracts that are congenital (you are born with them) or acquired through damage or injury to the eye. There are also rare types of cataracts that are acquired from some specific health conditions or medications or come about earlier on in life than the typical age-related types. Cataracts can occur in one or both eyes at different rates. Most people over the age of 45 have them starting, but they typically don’t become visually significant until into the 60’s, 70’s, or 80’s. They most commonly are very slow to change over the years, but in the later stages can change rapidly within a few months or even weeks. Some health conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes with large changes in blood sugar, can accelerate the rate of change in a cataract.
Symptoms may include:
- Blurred vision – can be rapid or slow onset
- Halos around lights
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Sensitivity to light
- Ghosting or double images – specifically out of one eye at a time
With early diagnosis and treatment, cataracts can be managed effectively. The proper treatment is the removal of the natural lens in the eye and replacement with a plastic lens that can be set to your prescription. Most people experience a large reduction in their prescription with cataract surgery. There are specific lens upgrades in the replacement lens to correct for astigmatism or even reduce the reliance on reading glasses after surgery. Sometimes natural lens replacement before you have cataracts can be recommended as a form of vision correction surgery as well! This is typically reserved for people with a large prescription that is outside the typical range of typical vision correction surgery like LASIK or PRK, as it is quite expensive. If you think you may have cataracts or are interested in more information about Refractive Lens Exchange, it is important to see your eye doctor for an evaluation. Contact us at Louie Eyecare Centre to book your next eye exam and get checked for cataracts.
West Edmonton Vision Clinic
Visit our vision clinic in central West Edmonton for comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fittings, glasses, and more. Louie Eyecare Centre is dedicated to providing the highest quality optometric services and products to our patients. Our team of experienced optometrists is here to help you with all of your eye care needs. Schedule an appointment today!
Clinic Hours
Monday Closed
Tuesday 9:00-5:00
Wednesday 9:00-5:00
Thursday 9:00-5:00
Friday 9:00-5:00
Saturday 9:00-2:00
Closed Sunday / Holidays
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Frequently Asked Questions
Seniors can maintain good eye health by eating a healthy diet, wearing sunglasses to protect their eyes from UV rays, and avoiding smoking. They should also be vigilant about any changes in their vision and seek medical attention promptly if they experience any concerns.
If an eye condition is detected, the optometrist will discuss and educate the patient in a way that is easy to understand. If the condition requires treatment, they will discuss risks and benefits, and initiate treatment. If surgical intervention is required they will refer the senior to a specialist for further evaluation and treatment.
Seniors should make a list of any concerns or symptoms they are experiencing and bring it to their appointment. They should also bring any eyewear they are using or would like to ask questions about, as well as a list of any current medications.
An eye exam for seniors typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the exam.
Some optometrists offer tele-optometry services, which allow seniors to have an eye exam from the comfort of their own home using video conferencing technology.
