Cataracts Evaluation

Cataracts are an extremely common age-related vision problem. While that doesn’t make the prospect of having them any more appealing, the good news is these are highly treatable, especially if you catch them early. That’s why it’s crucial to understand what cataracts are, to know the signs and symptoms and to see a doctor about them right away.

What Are Cataracts?

Cataracts are cloudy patches in the eye caused by a buildup of protein in the lens. This cloudiness not only causes blurring in your vision, but darkens your eyesight to further dampen your visual acuity. Cataracts may onset with age, may be caused by an injury or infection, and can develop in childhood or even in the womb. Routine exposure to pollution and cigarette smoke may also increase your chances of getting cataracts.

What Are the Most Common Cataract Symptoms and Signs?

Cataracts typically form slowly, and cataract symptoms are undetectable at first. They often begin with cloudy, blurry or filmy vision, cause symptoms of nearsightedness, reduce your ability to withstand glare, make night driving more difficult and can cause double vision. Cataract symptoms also include trouble with eyeglasses or contact lenses, making it so formerly effective prescriptions no longer function. If you notice changes in the way you process color, that could be a symptom of cataracts as well.

What Happens During a Cataract Evaluation?

During a cataract evaluation, your optometrist will first take a full health history (if one is not on file with us here at Resident Eyecare), then ask you about your current symptoms. Be sure to be detailed in describing them, as you never know which small symptom is significant.

The next step in a cataract evaluation is a full examination. Your optometrist will perform the necessary tests to determine whether you’re suffering from cataracts and how severe they are, and then discuss treatment options with you at that time.

How Can our Cataracts Specialist Help?

Our cataracts doctor can help prevent, manage and treat cataracts with a variety of techniques. Sometimes cataracts can be managed with prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses, in which case your doctor will try this approach. If that’s not possible or proves not to work over time, your optometrist will likely recommend surgery. This simple outpatient procedure can be done in a day and involves replacing your cloudy lens with a crystalline lens. Most people see better immediately.

How Can I Make an Appointment with Resident Eye Care in Fair Lawn NJ?

Contact us at (201) 797-2747, or request an appointment through our website. Our cataract specialists will take a look at your case, perform the necessary exams and determine whether corrective eyewear or surgery is necessary. When you come to Resident Eyecare, you can do so with the greatest assurance that we will always take you and your health seriously. Get in touch today!