What Should I Avoid if I Have Cataracts?

Cataracts occur with age and fog up one’s vision, making it challenging and eventually impossible to excel at daily tasks. Having cataracts is like seeing the world through a dirty window. If left untreated, total blindness can result. It’s estimated that around half the world’s cases of blindness are due to cataracts, so treating it is of utmost concern.

And you can protect your health and vision by being proactive about scheduling regular eye exams with Dr. Daniel Tepper in Chicago, IL. So, we invite residents of Chicago and the greater surrounding area to contact us today at Wickerpark Eye Center.

What should I avoid if I have cataracts?

While the onset of cataracts is generally an unavoidable consequence of aging, multiple factors may influence this condition. Some of these factors, like the aforementioned age, cannot be controlled. However, there are numerous others that individuals have some control over.

These include lifestyle choices, such as smoking or the consumption of alcohol, as excessive drinking can increase the risk of cataracts. Similarly, multiple other health considerations can increase cataract risk. Overall health affects all body systems, and the eyes are no different. Therefore, those who have diabetes, high blood pressure, or obesity face a higher risk. Certain medications, such as corticosteroids, can also play a role.

Additionally, one can protect their eyes (at least to some extent) from the formation of cataracts, along with other damaging conditions, by wearing sunglasses to limit exposure to UV radiation and sunlight in general. Finally, previous eye injuries or surgeries can impact the development of cataracts.

How can my cataracts be managed or treated?

Given the previously listed risk factors, there are some management strategies that patients can employ in their daily lives. For example, wearing sunglasses, avoiding UV radiation, and quitting smoking or heavier drinking. In addition, treating other health problems can be beneficial for many reasons, not just those related to the formation of cataracts.

Switching to a healthier diet can also have all-around and eye-health-boosting effects. Of special importance are the colorful fruits and veggies that are loaded with vitamins and minerals; some are known to help improve ocular outcomes. And, of course, it’s vital to schedule routine eye exams. The quicker a problem is detected, the quicker we can act, and the better your outcome will likely be.

When cataracts reach a certain stage, laser cataract surgery will be required. It’s an outpatient procedure that’s fast and virtually painless, thanks to the application of numbing eye drops, as well as oral sedatives and anesthesia to help you feel relaxed. We then make a small incision on the cornea using precise, cutting-edge laser technology to access the clouded lens. Finally, we remove the clouded lens and replace it with a synthetic intraocular lens, an IOL.

Contact us today to explore your cataract treatment options

After your wonderfully safe and effective laser cataract surgery, you’ll never have to worry about cataracts again. And with your fantastic new IOL, you may also find that you no longer need glasses or contacts.

So, if you’re dealing with cataracts or are worried about your vision or eye health in the greater Chicago area, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation. Set an appointment today with Dr. Daniel Tepper at Wickerpark Eye Center in Chicago, IL.