4 Surprising Facts About Cataracts

June is Cataract Awareness month and our Calgary optometrists are taking the opportunity to clear up any misconceptions about this eye condition! From what causes cataracts to cataract management, here are four cataract myths debunked.


A cataract refers to the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, resulting in changes to your vision. It can develop in one eye at a time, or both eyes simultaneously. It is a leading cause of vision loss in people over the age of 60 and some of the key symptoms include: 

  • Blurry vision 
  • Double vision 
  • Increased light sensitivity
  • Sudden changes in your prescription 
  • Difficulty seeing at night 
  • Appearance of halos around lights 

Cataracts tend to develop over time and they grow progressively worse, causing vision impairment that may affect the quality of your life. If you are experiencing any changes in your eyesight, it’s important to talk to your Calgary optometrist right away. 


Comprehensive Cataract Management Services at Our Calgary Eye Clinic 

At our Calgary eye clinic, our accredited optometrists are qualified and experienced in the diagnosis and management of cataracts. During a comprehensive eye exam, your eye doctor can check the health of your eye and examine your lens carefully for any sign of cataract formation. 

Our NE Calgary optometrists also provide cataract management services, including all pre and post-cataract surgery care, ensuring your vision always remains clear. 

CATARACT MANAGEMENT SERVICES IN CALGARY 


The Truth About Cataracts: 4 Myths About This Eye Condition Debunked 

Despite cataracts being a leading cause of vision loss in Canada and around the world, the eye condition is shrouded in misconceptions regarding the management and treatment of cataracts.

If you have started to develop this eye condition, or you are over the age of 60, it’s important to schedule regular eye exams with your optometrist. In the meantime, here are a few myths you should be aware of: 

1. You Can’t Lower Your Risk of Cataracts 

Cataracts are caused by normal changes in your eye as you age, and although they are not really preventable, there are a few lifestyle changes you can make to minimize your risk of developing this condition. This includes: 

  • Quitting smoking 
  • Adding fruits and vegetables (those rich in antioxidants) to your diet 
  • Wearing sunglasses when you are outside and in the sun 
  • Get dilated eye exams regularly if you’re over the age of 60 

SENIOR EYE EXAMS IN CALGARY 

 

2. Cataracts Only Affect Seniors 

Cataracts primarily affect patients who are over the age of 60, but that doesn’t mean that younger individuals aren’t at risk of developing this eye condition. Cataracts can sometimes develop in younger patients due to: 

  • Eye injury or trauma
  • Diabetes 
  • A congenital anomaly 
  • Other eye disorders 

Note: Although cataracts in younger people is not very common, it’s important to know the warning signs of this condition and talk to your eye doctor if you have any changes in your vision. This is important to make sure the condition is diagnosed and managed as early as possible. 

3. Surgery is the Only Management Option for Cataracts 

Cataract symptoms vary widely. They can be mild (faded colours, light sensitivity) or more severe as they progress (blurred vision, poor night vision, poor face recognition). If you are experiencing mild symptoms and cataracts are not affecting your daily life, your optometrist may recommend non-surgical management options, including: 

  • Magnifying lenses
  • Anti-glare sunglasses
  • Eyeglasses 


When is surgery necessary? If the vision loss caused by cataracts is interfering with your daily activities, such as reading, working, or driving, then surgery is the most effective way of restoring your vision. 

4. Cataract Surgery is High Risk and Painful 

This is one of the most dangerous pieces of misinformation surrounding cataracts, as it prevents people from getting the life-changing treatment they require to improve their vision and quality of life. 

While cataract surgery used to require a hospital stay and lengthy recovery period, modern cataract surgery is quick, low-risk, and requires very little downtime. In addition, cataract surgery results in: 

  • Greater independence 
  • Better safety and reduction in falls
  • Enhanced mental health 
  • Improved self-confidence 


Post Cataract Surgery Care and Management 

After cataract surgery, it’s important to still have regular eye exams. At our Calgary eye clinic, our eye doctors provide affordable and comprehensive post-cataract surgery care to check the health of your eyes and help you maintain good vision.


Our Calgary Eye Clinic Has Reopened! 

Our Calgary eye clinic is open again to serve you. Our telehealth services include virtual consultations, as well as delivery of contact lenses, eye drops, and other eye care essentials.

If you have any questions about your eye health, give us a call at 403-280-7518 or fill in our online contact form. 


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