This article will discuss what premature cataracts are, why you may have them, what are the symptoms, and how cataracts can be treated.
The team of optometrists at Sunridge Eye Clinic will be able to assess your vision and eye health through a child, adult, or senior eye exam to provide you with an optimal course of treatment to help restore your vision.
What Are Early Onset Cataracts?
Cataracts occur when one or both lenses in the eyes become cloudy therefore preventing light from adequately entering the eye. Vision becomes blurry and dim, and when left untreated, cataracts can cause vision loss and even blindness. The exact cause of early-onset cataracts is unknown, although there is research being conducted. There have been a few associated risks with the development of cataracts such as:
- Smoking
- Family history and genetics
- Eye injury
- Excessive exposure to UV rays
Cataracts can occur when proteins in the eye begin to clump together, reducing the light that gets to the retina, or the lens in the eye becomes gradually darker.
Symptoms of Cataracts
If the condition is age-related, symptoms will usually intensify over time. The most common symptoms include:
- Blurry vision
- Double vision
- Muted colours
- Halo vision
- Glare sensitivity
Cataracts are considered “early-onset” if they occur before the age of 60. Night vision is typically the first to go and this is usually when people realize that something is wrong with their vision.
Cataract Management And Treatment
During the early stages of cataract development, your optometrist will first determine the severity of your condition through an adult or senior eye exam. They will then suggest preventative steps to maintain the health of the eye with eyeglass or contact lens prescriptions. If your vision is severely impacted, your doctor will suggest a surgical treatment option.
To repair your cataracts, your ophthalmologist will replace your current lens with an artificial one called an intraocular lens. During cataract surgery, your surgeon will make a tiny incision in the periphery of your cornea. They then use a special tool to break up the cataract in your eye before placing the intraocular lens. It takes about three months to fully recover after cataract surgery, however, most patients have improved vision after 1-2 weeks.
Cataract Management WIth Calgary’s Most Trusted Optometrists
Currently, there is no way to prevent early-onset cataracts. But there are certain steps you can take to reduce the risk of developing the condition such as having regular eye exams, wearing sunglasses that provide protection from UV rays, and stopping smoking. If you feel your vision deteriorating or have not visited your eye doctor in the last couple of years, book an appointment for a comprehensive eye exam as soon as you can.
If you are experiencing symptoms of blurry vision, double vision, or any other vision problems, book an appointment with our experienced optometrists at Sunridge Eye Clinic. Our team of optometrists will be able to assess your vision and eye health through a child, adult, or senior eye exam to provide you with an optimal course of treatment to help restore your vision. Book your comprehensive eye exam today by calling 1-403-280-7518 or book online.
FAQ
Q: How often should I visit the eye doctor?
A: Adults under the age of 65 are recommended to visit the eye doctor once every 2 years. Adults over the age of 65 should visit their optometrist annually.
Q: How long is cataract surgery?
A: Cataract surgery is a straightforward procedure that takes 30-45 minutes.
Q: Does cataract surgery hurt?
A: Although you will be awake during the procedure, your ophthalmologist will administer numbing eye drops so you do not feel any pain or discomfort.
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