Cataracts
What Are Cataracts?
A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens inside your eye, which sits just behind the coloured iris. At Unia Opticians, we regularly assess and monitor cataracts, helping patients understand this common age-related condition. As we age, the proteins in the lens can clump together, causing areas of cloudiness that interfere with vision.
Cataracts typically develop slowly over months or years, gradually making your vision appear misty, faded, or less sharp. Most people over 60 have some degree of cataract formation, though they don’t always require treatment immediately.
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Recognising the Symptoms
Early cataracts may not cause noticeable symptoms, but as they progress, you might experience blurred or cloudy vision, increased sensitivity to glare from lights or sunshine, faded colours, difficulty with night driving, or frequent changes in your glasses prescription. Some people notice halos around lights or find they need brighter lighting for reading.
These symptoms develop gradually, so you might not realise how much your vision has changed until we compare your current sight to previous examinations. Regular eye tests are essential for detecting and monitoring cataract development.
Assessment and Monitoring
During your comprehensive eye examination, we carefully assess your lens clarity using specialist equipment and bright illumination. We can detect cataracts in their early stages and monitor how quickly they’re progressing over time. We’ll also assess how much the cataract is affecting your vision and daily activities.
Not all cataracts need immediate treatment, and many people live comfortably with early cataracts for years. We’ll discuss your symptoms, visual needs, and lifestyle to help you understand whether your cataracts require monitoring or whether referral for surgery might be appropriate.
Treatment and Referral
The only effective treatment for cataracts is surgical removal and replacement with an artificial lens implant. This is one of the most common and successful operations performed today, with excellent outcomes for the vast majority of patients.
When your cataracts begin to significantly interfere with your daily activities or quality of life, we can refer you to an experienced ophthalmologist for assessment and treatment. We’ll guide you through the referral process, explain what to expect, and continue to provide your ongoing eye care before and after surgery.
Living with Cataracts
If your cataracts aren’t yet affecting your life significantly, there are ways to manage symptoms whilst monitoring progression. Stronger glasses prescriptions, anti-glare coatings on your lenses, better lighting for close work, and wearing sunglasses outdoors can all help.
We’ll provide practical advice tailored to your situation and see you regularly to track any changes. When the time comes for surgery, we’ll ensure you’re fully informed and supported throughout the process.
Discuss Your Vision Concerns
Book an appointment to have your cataracts assessed and receive expert advice on the best approach for your individual circumstances.
