Have you noticed your vision getting cloudy? Do you struggle to drive at night? If so, you may be developing cataracts.
The good news? You're not alone. Almost one-fifth of adults aged 65 to 74 in the United States have cataracts that affect their eyesight, according to the Cleveland Clinic. That's tens of millions of Americans who suffer from impaired vision.
If you are a senior in Des Moines, IA, concerned about cataracts, you may be wondering, Can cataracts come back? In this article, we'll dive into the specifics of cataracts, the cataract removal procedure, and how vision after surgery can affect your daily life.
Cataracts occur when the eye lenses become cloudy. The proteins in the lenses tend to break down as you age and cluster together, forming the appearance of clouds.
Some of the symptoms of cataracts include:
You may receive a cataract diagnosis at the eye doctor through your annual eye exam. Some of the tests used to diagnose cataracts include:
Although you may associate cataracts with old age, there are several different subtypes:
These are the most common types of cataracts associated with aging eyesight, and the main type that affects seniors. Nuclear sclerotic cataracts occur in the nucleus, or center of the lens, as vital proteins break down within the eye.
Cortical cataracts develop the opposite way from nuclear sclerotic cataracts. Rather than starting in the center, they begin on the outer edge of the pupil and move inward.
Did you know that genetics can influence the development of cataracts? Congenital cataracts are sometimes present at birth or can form during childhood due to genetic factors or injuries.
The term "secondary cataracts" is a misnomer. While symptoms similar to cataracts can occur following cataract surgery, cataracts cannot truly re-emerge. Rather, a surgical complication may cause repeat symptoms, known as secondary cataracts.
Cataracts can't come back, but conditions following your surgery, such as posterior capsule opacification, may mimic cataracts. Sometimes, cells are left behind following the procedure, which can migrate within the eye and cause cloudy vision to redevelop.
Luckily, this complication can be fixed with a simple laser procedure. Monitor your vision during recovery after cataract surgery. If you experience any of the cataract symptoms you exhibited previously, you may need a follow-up procedure to treat secondary cataracts.
While you can't completely avoid cataracts, you can take steps in your daily life to support better eye health and catch cataracts early. Here are some Des Moines wellness tips for cataract awareness:
Even if you do not have previous vision issues, it is still important to visit the optometrist. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends making an appointment for an eye exam every one to two years.
If you're a Des Moines senior concerned about cost, consider vision insurance. Many plans offer decent coverage with affordable premiums.
With the plethora of devices that we constantly have access to, such as tablets and smartphones, it can be difficult to limit screen time. If you work on a computer, reducing those hours can be challenging.
Try to reduce screen time in feasible areas of your life. For instance, switch to analog books and magazines before you go to bed, instead of scrolling through social media on your smartphone. This will help you fall asleep quicker and reduce the effects of blue light, which can lead to better overall sleep hygiene.
Screens can be incredibly harsh on your eyes as well. Excessive screen time may cause symptoms such as:
Although it may not be ideal, it is important to wear glasses if your eye doctor says you need them. Avoiding wearing glasses can worsen your vision more quickly over time, and cause headaches and discomfort as well.
If you are new to glasses, wear them for a few minutes at a time to adjust. Then, try for longer periods. Eventually, you should be able to wear them full time without discomfort.
For seniors with memory issues, it can be tough to remember to wear glasses. Keep the glasses easily accessible by wearing them around your neck.
The sun's harmful UV rays aren't just bad for the skin; they can cause detrimental effects to your eye health as well. Your eyes can suffer if you spend the day in bright sunlight without any eye protection.
Bring a pair of sunglasses with you in your vehicle or bag whenever you plan an outdoor activity. You'll be protected and can help prevent conditions like cataracts.
So, can cataracts come back? Technically, no, but the answer is more complicated than that. Secondary cataracts can be a life-altering complication following surgery that needs to be treated right away.
Senior eye care doesn't have to be complicated when you reside in an assisted living community. At Addington Place of Des Moines, our caring and compassionate staff is here to help you navigate health issues as they arise. With both assisted living and memory care programs, we have the resources you need to thrive in your senior years.
Are you ready to transition to assisted living or memory care? Reach out to Addington Place of Des Moines today to learn more, or visit our beautiful location in person. We can't wait to meet you!