Cataract: Diagnosis & Treatment
Cataracts are a progressive disorder of the eyes, which is unnoticeable at first. In its early stages, it is correctable with eyeglasses or contact lens prescriptions. Although as the condition progresses, surgery may be recommended. The condition is caused by a build-up of protein in the eyes, which causes the lens to become increasingly cloudy. An estimated 24+ million Americans are currently living with cataracts.
Fortunately, being diagnosed with cataracts does not mean you are doomed to lose your vision. It only means you need to take some corrective measures and seek treatment.
Here at Prudhomme Vision in South Windsor, CT, we provide a variety of treatments for cataracts as well as similar and related eye conditions. We can diagnose and treat this condition effectively.
Diagnosing Cataracts
Obtaining a diagnosis for cataracts can be done in one of three ways:
- Visual Acuity Test
- Slit Lamp Exam
- Retinal Exam
The visual acuity test is a simple test in which we use an eye chart to measure your ability to see detail at various distances. This lets us test how sharp your vision is, whether your vision is 20/20, or if there are any signs of impairment.
The slit lamp experiment allows your eye care professional to observe structures in the front portion of your eye via magnification. It shines a strong beam of light into the eye, which illuminates cross-sections of any structures in the lens.
A retinal exam is done by placing drops in the eyes to dilate the pupils, allowing your optometrist to examine the back portion of your eye, the retina.
Using these techniques, your eye care doctor can develop an accurate diagnosis if you are developing cataracts, some other similar condition, or if your vision is healthy.
Treating Cataracts
Anyone who is or may be developing cataracts should seek diagnosis and treatment. If it is determined that you are developing the condition, there are effective treatments that can be used to correct and restore your vision.
To begin, your optometrist will recommend corrective glasses to counteract any visual impairment caused by cataracts. Should the condition progress, surgery may become your only option.
During cataract surgery, the natural lens which has become clouded is replaced with an artificial lens. It is a delicate, but highly effective procedure that has been perfected by practice and development over many years.
Cataracts can happen to people of any age but tend to occur most frequently in people over the age of 40. If you believe you may be developing cataracts in one or both eyes, seek the care of the professional optometry team at Prudhomme Vision in South Windsor. We look forward to hearing from you.
If you have any questions about our services, please contact us today at (860) 644-3364.