6757 US Highway 98, Suite #101
Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

 

6757 US Highway 98, Suite #101
Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

Cataracts

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 Treatment for Cataracts in Santa Rosa Beach, FL.

What Are Cataracts
A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens, the part of the eye responsible for focusing light and producing clear, sharp images. The lens is contained in a sealed bag or capsule. As old lens cells die, they become trapped within the capsule. Over time, the cells accumulate, causing the lens to cloud and making images look blurred or fuzzy. Cataracts are a natural result of the aging process, but may also be caused by diabetes. Occasionally, they are present at birth.


Signs You May Have Cataracts

Cataracts can sneak up on you, which is one of the reasons why regular eye examinations are important, especially for older eyes. You may be developing cataracts if you notice:

  • Your vision becoming cloudy or blurry
  • You have increasing difficulty seeing at night
  • You notice increased sensitivity to light and glare
  • You need brighter light when you read
  • You are seeing a halo around a light source
  • You see faded or yellowed colors
  • Your vision is double in one eye

Risk Factors for Cataracts

You are at increased risk of developing cataracts if you:

  • Smoke
  • Have diabetes
  • Spend extended periods in bright sunlight

Prevention of Cataracts

You can help prevent cataract formation if you:

  • Don’t smoke
  • Eat a diet rich in antioxidants from fruits and leafy green vegetables
  • Always wear sunglasses when you are out in bright sunlight

How Your Eye Doctor Can Treat Cataracts

Surgery is the treatment option for cataracts. Typically, surgery is performed on one eye at a time. During surgery, the cloudy lens of your eye is removed and replaced with an artificial lens, which is known as an intraocular lens.

What to Expect After Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis and requires no hospital stay. Complete healing typically takes about 8 weeks. During the healing period, it’s important to:

  • Avoid driving until your doctor clears you to drive
  • Avoid strenuous activity until you are fully healed
  • Avoid wearing eye makeup for at least 4 weeks
  • Stay away from fumes, smoke, and other eye irritants
  • Wear sunglasses to shield your eyes from bright light
  • Be careful to protect your eyes when taking a shower

Need to get tested for Cataracts? Contact O’Donnell Eye Institute in Santa Rosa Beach, FL at 805-622-4000 to learn more about your options!