Over 40? Here's What You Need to Know About Cataracts

Cataracts generally begin appearing once individuals are in their 40s, but many may not start experiencing symptoms until later, possibly in their 60s. Every patient is unique, so having a handy primer can give you peace of mind or allow you to seek timely treatment in Tuscaloosa, AL.

One of the most effective and efficient ways to deal with cataracts, as well as other eye care concerns, is to schedule a consultation with our experienced team. We'd love to help you achieve top-notch eye health and visual acuity, so please don't hesitate to contact us at inVision Ophthalmology Tuscaloosa.

If you're over 40, it's essential to know the following facts about cataracts

The primary symptom of cataracts is a gradual blurring of one's vision, which is often likened to trying to look through a foggy or dirty window. Other symptoms may include difficulty seeing at night, seeing double, seeing halos or glare around lights, or having those lights appear abnormally bright. Some individuals will also notice that they often have to change their prescription. Therefore, if you've experienced blurriness, haziness, poorer color vision, or generally reduced visual acuity, cataracts may be to blame.

But even though cataracts may be a result of the aging process that affects us all, there are some things one can do to slow down the progression of cataracts. For example, quitting or avoiding smoking and tobacco products can help, as can limiting one's alcohol consumption. One should also be proactive about wearing sunglasses and limiting exposure to UV radiation.

Other strategies can improve one's outcome and be pursued daily and at home. Individuals should strive to adopt a varied diet rich in nutrients and healthful options like fruits, veggies, omega-3-rich foods, whole grains, lean meats, and other nutritious foods. Exercise also offers a significant advantage that can improve well-being across all bodily systems. Proper dietary choices and frequent activity can also alleviate ailments implicated with cataracts, including diabetes.

And, of course, it's imperative to schedule regular eye exams, so our ophthalmologists can track your ocular health and offer patient-and-situation-specific tips and tricks for daily care.

Cataract surgery offers safe, effective treatment

For those whose cataracts are of a certain maturity, cataract surgery will be necessary. Fortunately, this solution is simple and well-practiced. In fact, it's one of the most practiced medical procedures. And over the decades, it's become more effective, safer, and quicker.

Modern technology, including cutting-edge laser systems, now provide unmatched precision. Cataract removal surgery is a straightforward process. We first numb your eyes, then make a tiny incision on the outermost layer, the cornea. Through this incision, we insert a small probe that breaks down your cataracts, along with the clouded lens of the eye.

We then replace your now-removed natural lens with a synthetic intraocular lens, an IOL. We offer various IOLs, and depending on your choice, you may no longer need glasses or contact lenses afterward. Additionally, your synthetic IOL can never develop cataracts, so you won't have to worry about recurrence.

Contact us today for sustained ocular health

Cataracts are the world's primary cause of blindness because they're so common and can happen to anyone. This age-related condition results from the breakdown of proteins within the eye's lens, which cannot be reversed.

Yet there are multiple strategies we can employ to protect your vision, including refractive cataract surgery and traditional cataract surgery. Our doctors at inVision Ophthalmology Tuscaloosa are here to assist you. So, reach out to us today to guard your eyesight and ocular integrity in Tuscaloosa, AL.