Cataract removal is one of the most common operations performed in the U.S. Thanks to advances in technology, it is also one of the safest and most effective types of surgery with 90% of patients reporting greatly improved vision after surgery. This is evidence of the expertise of a limited few surgeons—like Boca Raton’s own Dr. Alan Aker and his associates at the Aker Kasten Eye Center. Don’t trust your eyesight to just anyone. Look for an experienced surgeon trained in the latest techniques and protocols.

What Is A Cataract?

To receive a clear, sharp image from our retina, the lenses must be clear. The lens lies behind the iris and pupil and works somewhat like a camera lens, helping to focus light onto the retina and adjust focus. The lens consist primarily of water and protein but as we age some protein may meld together and start to could the lens—this is a cataract. If the lens become cloudy due to a cataract, the image you see will be blurred and may even add a yellowish or brownish tint to the images you see.

Cataracts typically cloud the lens of the eye and affects vision. While there are varying types and causes of cataracts, most cataracts are related to aging. In fact, more than half of Americans ages 80 or over either have a cataract or have had cataract surgery.

What Do I Do If I Think I Have A Cataract?

While researchers can point to several possible causes and risk factors for cataracts, a majority are diagnosed through a comprehensive dilated eye exam which should be performed once every two years. If you have any of the following symptoms or risk factors such as diabetes, you should see your ophthalmologist sooner:

• Cloudy or blurred vision
• Colors seem faded
• Poor night vision
•A halo appears around lights—or sunlight or lights appear too bright or you are bothered by glare

How Can I Prevent A Cataract and Protect My Vision?

Most researchers agree that good nutrition, full of green leafy vegetables, fruit, and other foods with antioxidants might help reduce the risk of age-related cataracts. Protecting your vision from ultraviolet sunlight may also help to delay cataract so using sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat are good accessories, especially for those of us in The Sunshine State!

How Are Cataracts Treated?

Early cataract symptoms can be improved with new eyeglasses, better lighting, and anti-glare sunglasses. If these do not help you may be a candidate for surgery. But surgery is only necessary if vision loss affects your daily activities such as driving, reading, or watching TV. Be sure you ask questions of your eye doctor and make an informed decision. Your eye care professional can provide you with up-to-date information about the procedures available to you and the risks and benefits.

While it is generally regarded as a safe and effective procedure, you may want to have a little help around the house following an eye procedure since you will be asked not to bend from the waist or lift heavy objects. An aide from The Aker Kasten Home Health Care Agency can assist you for a day or two until you feel more confident and have recovered fully. Click here to learn more about how we can help you.

Low Vision Care Options

If you have any questions or concerns about your vision—make an appointment right away. We highly recommend the Aker Kasten Eye Center, one of a few of elite practices designated as a Center of Excellence for the Crystalens HD intraocular lens. Click here for more information about senior care services in Boca Raton, FL and the surrounding areas.