In What Ways Do Cataracts Affect Vision?

Most of us have at least heard of cataracts, though you may not know exactly what cataracts are, who is at risk for cataracts, or how cataracts can affect your vision. While severe cataracts can lead to a complete loss of vision, most cataracts – fortunately – are correctable when treated promptly and properly. At Wickerpark Eye Center in the Greater Chicago area, board-certified ophthalmologist Dr. Daniel Tepper is proud to provide the most cutting-edge cataract solutions available today to help patients restore clearer vision and confidence. In this blog, you’ll find useful information on the fundamentals of cataracts and cataract treatment, including what signs and symptoms may mean you are developing cataracts and what options you have to correct them.

What are cataracts?

Often referred to as cloudy lenses, cataracts are deformities in the natural lenses of the eye that result from a breakdown of tissues and other structures. While many cataract cases are related to genetics, the development of cataracts can be exacerbated by a number of risk factors and behaviors, including:

• Smoking
• Being overweight
• Having diabetes
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Exposure to harmful UV rays
• Not wearing eye protection

What symptoms do cataracts cause?

Although the symptoms of cataracts often mimic those of other eye conditions, there are some signs that may mean a cataract-specific examination would be right for you. Some of the most common vision changes related to cataracts include:

• Hazy or blurry vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Glare
• Difficulty seeing clearly at night, particularly when driving
• Halos
• Dull or faded colors
• Cloudy or patchy sight

How do you get rid of cataracts?

In early or mild cases, patients may find relief from their cataract symptoms with something as simple as glasses. As cataracts progress, however, it can become more difficult – or even impossible – to restore a person’s vision. For this reason, it is essential that patients undergo a comprehensive eye examination at regular intervals to evaluate for potential cataracts or to assess the progression of a known cataract. Based on the findings of these eye exams and the severity of a patient’s symptoms. Dr. Tepper may recommend cataract surgery.

During cataract surgery at Wickerpark Eye Center, the clouded lens of the eye is removed with precise laser technology and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). For most patients, IOL cataract lens surgery results in the restoration of clear, vibrant, long-lasting vision without complications or side effects.

Is cataract surgery permanent?

Believe it or not, the artificial IOL used during cataract surgery is designed to last a lifetime, meaning patients can remove cataracts from their list of worries once the procedure is done. Although the placement of an IOL does not necessarily guarantee lifetime 20/20 vision, most individuals report dramatic and long-lasting improvements in their vision after cataract surgery.

The answer is clear with cataract surgery in Chicago, IL

Thanks to modern medicine and technology, developing cataracts no longer means the loss of your vision and independence. With advanced cataract treatments and surgery, board-certified ophthalmologist Dr. Daniel Tepper and the award-winning team at Wickerpark Eye Center are proud to help patients restore their vision, confidence, and overall quality of life more conveniently than ever before. To learn more about your options for cataract surgery in the Greater Chicago area, call to schedule your one-on-one consultation with Dr. Tepper today.