Cataract surgery is a common and safe procedure that is used to address cloudy vision. If you experience vision deficiencies due to cataracts, this treatment may be right for you. As with any surgery, however, it is important to know all the details involved. Some individuals may still need glasses or contact lenses following cataract surgery at Chu Vision Institute.
So, what causes cataracts, and what do cataracts do to your vision? How will surgery affect your vision? When you schedule a consultation with cataract and refractive surgeon Dr. Ralph Chu in Bloomington, MN, we can let you know about the factors that influence the success of your operation. Speaking with a trained professional can increase your satisfaction with the results.
What causes cataracts?
Many individuals experiencing vision loss want to know – what causes cataracts? Many factors can lead to cataracts, including genetic disorders and medical conditions like diabetes. However, most people get cataracts due to normal aging. As we get older, tissues in the eye begin to break down and clump together. Cataracts prevent light from passing through the lens, which is what gives us cloudy vision. Patients should know that if a cataract develops in one eye, it is likely to spread to the other as well.
What do cataracts do to your vision?
So, what do cataracts do to your vision? If cataracts are not addressed right away, they prevent you from enjoying the everyday activities you enjoy. This can lead to issues such as frustration or a loss in independence. People who choose to drive with cataracts put themselves at risk as well as others. Ultimately, cataracts can affect your quality of life. At Chu Vision Institute in Bloomington, MN, we can help you recognize some of the more common symptoms in addition to cloudy vision, including:
-
Blurry or dim vision
-
Difficulty seeing at night
-
Sensitivity to bright lights
-
Seeing “halos” around lights
-
Frequent changes in contact lens prescription
How your vision is affected following cataract surgery
Cataract surgery removes the cloudy lens from your eye and replaces it with a clear, artificial one. Immediately following this kind of procedure, it is normal to experience some blurry vision. Dr. Chu can give you post-surgical instructions and guidelines so you know what to expect during recovery. Many patients begin to see clearly the day after their procedure. However, it is possible that your eyesight could take 1 – 2 weeks to adjust. In a follow-up appointment, our team will let you know whether you require visual aids such as glasses. In the meantime, you should:
-
Avoid rubbing or pressing down on your eyes
-
Avoid splashing water into your eyes
-
Avoid strenuous exercises for several weeks
-
Wear protective sunglasses when outdoors
Correct cloudy vision through cataract surgery
Most people develop a cataract at some point in their lifetime. Thanks to advanced, state-of-the-art medical technology and talented practitioners, cataracts do not have to lead to vision loss forever. The professionals at Chu Vision Institute can perform a thorough assessment and give you information about your cataract options moving forward. Learn more about cataracts from cataract and refractive specialist Dr. Ralph Chu in Bloomington, MN, by scheduling an appointment today.
