Cataracts are a leading cause of vision loss worldwide. This condition pertains to the clouding of the lens of the eye. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 17.2% of Americans older than 40 have cataracts in one or both eyes.
While a common eye condition, many myths still surround cataracts. A local orthokeratology specialist debunks five of them.
1. Cataracts Only Occur in Older Adults
One of the most popular misconceptions about cataracts is that they only occur in older adults. The truth is they can be present at birth. Cataracts can also develop in younger individuals, and some medications can increase your risk for cataracts, such as corticosteroids.
2. Overusing Your Eyes Can Cause Cataracts
How much you use your eyes doesn’t have anything to do with your risk of developing cataracts. However, cataracts can make doing up-close work more challenging. While healthy lifestyle changes can’t prevent cataracts, they can slow down the eye condition’s progression.
3. Eye Drops Can Treat Cataracts
No eye drops can prevent or dissolve cataracts. Cataracts are not growths but changes in the structure of the lens. Removing and replacing the affected lens is the only way to treat this eye condition. If you have cataracts, only an eye exam doctor can determine which treatment option suits you.
4. Cataract Surgery Is Risky
Cataract surgery is one of today’s safest procedures, with a success rate of 95%. It’s painless and only takes around 15 to 20 minutes. You can usually leave the hospital a few hours following the surgery. Most patients recover within four weeks, but some notice a significant improvement in their vision a few days after the procedure.
5. Cataracts Can Go Back Following Surgery
Once the affected lens has been replaced, cataracts will not recur. However, some people may experience cloudy vision because the membrane holding the synthetic lens can decline with age. Fortunately, a quick and safe in-office laser procedure can address this issue.
Are you experiencing changes in your vision? Let Lumen Optometric assess your vision and eye health. If you also need to update your eyeglasses or contact lenses, we’re here to help. Call us at (626) 921-0199 or complete our online form to schedule an appointment.