Cataracts

As we mature our lens hardens and yellows with age. The lens can develop irregularities that result in scattering of light that results in glare and halos around lights, and can decrease your vision. As these changes progress, individuals with cataracts may no longer see as well as they used to, even with glasses on. At this point, it is time to think about cataract surgery.

There are things you can do to slow cataract progression and development. Dr. Thompson trained at Johns Hopkins where studies have shown that hats and sunglasses worn by the Chesapeake watermen can slow the development of cataracts. You can help reduce your risks of developing cataracts by protecting yourself from the the sun's ultraviolet rays by wearing a hat and/or sunglasses with UV protection.

Smoking can also speed cataract formation. Smoking has also been associated with an increased risk of macular degeneration, a debilitating disease that may results in loss of central vision and legal blindness.

Some forms of catarats are more visually disabling than others. There are forms of cataracts progress more rapidly than others. Certain types of cataracts can result in a change in the glasses prescription. For other types of cataracts, a change in the glasses does not result in visual improvement. Cataract surgery is considered when vision cannot be corrected with glasses and other disease process resulting in vision loss have been assessed.

Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy lens in the eye and replacing it with a new clear lens. Invididuals undergoing cataract surgery do not require a hospital stay. The improved vision following cataract surgery can be remarkable and life changing. Dr. Thompson works with our patients to determine their visual needs to help them achieve the best possible vision following catarct surgery.

To learn more about cataracts and cataracts surgery, you can click here to visit the Mayo Clinic website.