Can I Live With Cataracts Without Surgery?
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If you've been diagnosed with cataracts, you may be wondering if you can live with them without undergoing surgery. The short answer is yes, but it depends on how much they affect your daily life. Cataracts develop slowly, and in the early stages, many people can manage with reading glasses or other adjustments. However, as cataracts progress, symptoms like cloudy vision make daily activities more difficult.
Below, we'll discuss how cataracts develop, signs that surgery may be necessary, and how to treat cataracts through a simple, in-house procedure. Call our team at West County Ophthalmology to book a consultation in Chesterfield, MO. We can help you achieve clearer vision through advanced treatment options.
What causes cloudy vision?
Many people want to know what causes cloudy vision that's associated with cataracts. It occurs when the lens breaks down and clumps together to form cloudy areas. Over time, these areas can grow larger, making it harder for light to pass through the lens and reach the retina. People with cataracts often experience blurry or dim vision, sensitivity to light, or trouble seeing at night, which is why they turn to cataract surgery as a solution.
Factors contributing to cataracts include:
- Aging (the most common cause)
- Smoking and excessive alcohol use
- Diabetes and other medical conditions
- Prolonged exposure to UV rays
- Certain medications, such as steroids
How to manage cataracts without surgery
In the early stages, cataracts can be managed without surgery. Common solutions include:
- Updating your glasses prescription to address changes in vision
- Using magnifying lenses to help with reading or other close-up tasks
- Increasing lighting at home or work to reduce strain on your eyes
- Limiting night driving, as cataracts can make it harder to see in low-light conditions
However, it's important to remember that these methods are only temporary. If symptoms are interfering with your life and you want to know how to treat cataracts in the long term, surgery is the solution.
How long does cataract surgery take?
Cataract surgery may seem intimidating, but the procedure is quick and minimally invasive. So, how long does cataract surgery take? On average, it takes only 15 – 30 minutes per eye. Performed on an outpatient basis, you can expect to return home the same day.
Here's an overview of what happens during cataract surgery at West County Ophthalmology in Chesterfield, MO:
- Preparation: Our team will numb your eye with a local anesthetic.
- Lens removal: We make a small incision and use advanced tools to break up and remove the cloudy lens.
- Lens replacement: We replace the natural lens with a clear intraocular lens (IOL).
Why choose cataract surgery over nonsurgical treatments?
While surgery may seem intimidating at first, modern cataract surgery offers a wide range of benefits compared to glasses or other nonsurgical treatments:
- Clearer vision: Say goodbye to cloudy, blurred vision and enjoy sharper, clearer vision.
- Brighter colors: Many patients are amazed at how vibrant the world looks after cataract surgery.
- Less reliance on glasses: Depending on the type of intraocular lens you choose, you may find yourself needing glasses less frequently.
Learn how to treat cataracts with surgery
So, what causes cloudy vision, and how long does cataract surgery take? At West County Ophthalmology, we understand that you have questions about cataracts and the ideal treatment options. Whether you're managing early-stage cataracts or considering an intraocular lens through surgery, our experienced team is here to guide you each step of the way.
If you're ready to learn more, call to schedule a consultation in Chesterfield, MO. Take the first step toward clearer vision today.