I don't need glasses all the time, but as I'm getting older I do find it harder read fine print. I like to carry reading glasses so that I don't get stuck when I'm out and about, but I don't want to always carry a bulky glasses case. I like to try and find reading glasses that are compact and can easily be carried in the pocket and are pretty hardy so they don't get too scratched up. This blog is all about affordable options for pocket reading glasses to keep you able to read all those tiny fonts and prints.
Cataracts are one of the most common eye conditions and are especially common in older people. A cataract is a cloudy patch on the lens inside your eye, which gets bigger and eventually causes vision changes and loss. They can be diagnosed during a routine eye test by your eye doctor, which means that taking care of your eye health through regular appointments is vital. This short guide aims to explain cataracts from their symptoms and diagnosis through to treatment.
Symptoms of Cataracts
The main symptom of cataracts is changed vision, and generally, cataracts will make your vision blurry, misty, or cloudy. The problem may affect one eye or may affect both, but will not cause pain or irritation. Some of the less well-known symptoms of cataracts includes double vision and seeing colours as faded or brown. Your reactions to light may also change, making bright light uncomfortable. If you have any of these symptoms, you should book an appointment with an eye doctor.
Diagnosis of Cataracts
Cataracts are often diagnosed during a regular eye exam, which is only one reason why regular appointments with your eye doctor are vital. The NHS explains that your optician can perform a range of tests to diagnose cataracts, including a visual acuity exam. If your eye doctor believes that they have detected cataracts, they will refer you to an ophthalmologist to discuss treatment options.
Treatment for Cataracts
The only real treatment for cataracts is surgery, and whether this takes place immediately after diagnosis will be the choice of you and your eye doctor. However, as cataracts typically get worse, surgery will be necessary at some point. The cloudy lens inside the eye will be removed and replaced with an artificial lens, known as an intraocular lens. The procedure usually takes place in a hospital, though usually, an overnight stay is not required. Most people are pleased with the results of the surgery and the restoration of their vision.
Prevention of Cataracts
While cataracts are often just a consequence of ageing, there are certain risk factors that make their development more likely. For example, some medical conditions and medications increase the risk of cataracts. Diabetes, myopia, glaucoma, and a range of other conditions make cataracts more likely. This means that while the condition cannot be prevented, precautions can be taken in order to ensure an early diagnosis.
Despite the fact that cataracts can cause vision loss and cannot be reversed, their removal is a simple procedure that is usually very successful. Ensure that you have regular eye tests to check for cataracts, and if you feel that your vision has changed, book an extra test to discuss your options with an eye doctor.
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