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How Are Cataracts Treated?
Cataract treatment is determined by how advanced the condition is and how much it affects your daily life. Mild cataracts that cause slight blurriness can often be managed with updated glasses or contact lenses. When cataracts become more severe and begin to significantly impact vision, surgery may be needed to remove them.
What Does Cataract Surgery Involve?
Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure involving lens implants. During cataract surgery, a tiny incision is made on the eye and the impacted lens is removed. It is replaced with a clear, artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL) through the same incision. The entire procedure only takes about 10 minutes.
What Are the Symptoms of Cataracts?
Because cataracts develop over time, the symptoms appear slowly. The first sign of a cataract is generally hazy or blurred vision. Other symptoms of cataracts include:
Double vision
Trouble seeing well at night or in dim light
Seeing halos around headlights at night
Seeing bright colors as faded or yellowish
Light and glare sensitivity
When Should I See a Nationwide Vision Doctor for Cataracts?
You should see an eye doctor when cataracts begin to affect your vision or everyday activities. In some cases, advanced cataracts can also raise the risk of other serious eye conditions, such as glaucoma. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, schedule an eye exam at Nationwide Vision for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment recommendations. We’re here to help you see clearly and confidently.
How Does Nationwide Vision Diagnose Cataracts?
In the early stages, cataracts can be difficult to detect and may not cause noticeable symptoms. At Nationwide Vision, the eye doctors use advanced diagnostic technology to identify cataracts during a comprehensive eye exam. If cataracts are found, additional testing is performed to determine their severity and the best treatment approach. Your doctor will walk you through each step and explain your results clearly. Tests include:
Visual Acuity & Refraction
To measure how clearly you see and whether glasses help.
Slit-Lamp Exam
To directly examine the cornea, iris, and lens for cataract changes.
Dilated Retinal Exam (Ophthalmoscopy)
To assess cataract type/severity and overall eye health.
Imaging (Fundus Photos/OCT)
To directly examine the cornea, iris, and lens for cataract changes.
Tonometry
To check eye pressure and screen for coexisting glaucoma.
Who Can Get Cataract Surgery?
Typically, Nationwide Vision looks for cataract surgery candidates who meet the following criteria:
Notice worse night vision or significant glare when driving at night
Find it harder to read or complete everyday tasks clearly
Have symptoms like blurred vision or colors that look faded
Still have subpar vision even after updating your glasses and contact lenses
What Causes Cataracts?
Cataracts are one of the most common reasons for vision changes, affecting millions of people across the United States. Aging is the most frequent cause, but cataracts can also be influenced by genetics, certain medical conditions, and lifestyle factors, and they can appear in younger adults as well.
Risk factors for cataracts include:
Diabetes
Hypertension
High blood pressure
Extensive steroid use
Significant alcohol consumption
Obesity
Smoking
High myopia
Sun exposure
Family history of cataracts
Previous eye injury or eye surgery
Frequently Asked Questions About Cataracts
Schedule an Appointment with Nationwide Vision
The team at Nationwide Vision is experienced in identifying and managing a variety of eye diseases and conditions. Routine eye exams help protect your eye health and support clear, comfortable vision. If cataracts are diagnosed, you’ll receive guidance on the most appropriate treatment options based on your individual needs. Schedule an eye exam today to evaluate your eye health and discuss your next steps.