Cataracts

 

Cataracts are one of the leading causes of vision loss in people over the age of 40 and remain an uncomfortable side effect of growing older. They are the leading cause of blindness in people aged 55 and older.

 

Usually painless, cataracts develop as you age and your eyes' lenses naturally begin to harden and turn cloudy or white. The cloudy lens in your eye then blocks light from reaching your retina (the part of your eye that transmits visual information to your brain). The result is a reduction in vision—not unlike looking through a dirty car windshield.

 

While cataracts often occur naturally as you age, you're more likely to develop them if you have diabetes and hypertension, are obese, a regular smoker or have a family history of the condition.

 

Getting cataracts treated early on is essential to maintaining proper vision. Schedule an exam on a regular basis if you notice any symptoms.

 

Cataract surgery in Vancouver

 

If you are thinking about cataract surgery in Vancouver, come to Perspective Optometry first.  We diagnose cataracts and advise patients on prevention and treatment options and we recommend excellent surgeons when surgery is required.

We provide medical management before and after surgery to ensure the best outcome and the least amount of discomfort following surgery.  We often prescribe medication prior to surgery so that common post-operative complications, such as dry eye, are minimized or avoided all together.  

For cataract surgery patients, the best strategy is to have an optometrist in your corner before and after surgery to manage the side effects of the surger and who can send you to the best surgeons in Vancouver give you the best post-operative care.

 

Risks of cataract surgery

 

While cataract surgery is generally safe, there are risks. Some of the most common risks include posterior capsule rupture, corneal edema and ocular hypertension. Learn more abou these risks here.

 

Cataract Surgery for vision correction

 

In addition to treating your cataract, cataract surgery can correct your vision. For this reason many of our patients choose to have cataract surgery earlier than is medically necessary. This type of elective cataract surgery is not covered by MSP but can be paid for privately.

Vision and mental health

 

Poor vision and inadequate eye health care is linked to cognitive decline in elderly people.

In a recent study of 625 elderly patients conducted by the University of Michigan, those with poor vision who did not receive proper eye care were a stunning nine times more at risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and five times more at risk for some form of cognitive impairment. 

In contrast, those with good vision had a 63% reduced risk of developing dementia. Read more...