Cataract surgery is one of the most well-known and often performed eye surgeries worldwide. During this procedure, the clouded lens, or cataract, is removed and replaced with an artificial lens. This clear lens is what improves vision in patients. While most people find that changing their prescription is enough to manage cloudy vision, your cataracts may eventually need removal.
So, what causes cataracts, and when should cataracts be removed? When deciding on the right time to have surgery, you may also need to take into account several different factors. If you have questions about cataract surgery in Las Vegas, Boulder City, Henderson, Mesquite, or Pahrump, NV, contact the trained professionals at Nevada Eye Physicians. We can help you improve poor vision.
What causes cataracts?
A cataract occurs when your natural lens becomes cloudy. It causes slow, progressive blurry vision, both distant and near. You may also experience halos and glares around lights with cataracts. So, what causes cataracts? Many cases develop as part of natural aging or an injury to the eye. Some genetic disorders that cause other health problems can also increase your risk. Since most symptoms are gradual and painless, most people do not realize they have cataracts until they are advanced.
What does vision look like with cataracts?
As cataracts grow larger and cloud over your lens, noticeable symptoms will begin to develop. If you have the following cataract symptoms, you should seek advice from an experienced doctor who can advise the best treatment plan moving forward. Some of the most common signs include:
- Cloudy vision
- Blurry vision
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Sensitivity to light
- Seeing halos around lights
- Frequent changes in glasses prescription
- Fading or yellowing of colors
- Double vision
Getting a cataract examination
When cataract symptoms begin to appear, your vision can be improved with a new pair of glasses or contact lenses. Others invest in tools, like brighter lights when reading. However, these are short-term solutions that do not address the root of the problem. During an eye examination in Las Vegas, we will review your complete health history and visual acuity. We will also talk about your current quality of life and whether cataract surgery is something to consider.
When should cataracts be removed?
So, when should cataracts be removed? If a cataract becomes so advanced that it impairs your vision and daily activities, surgery is recommended. This is because cataracts can make certain activities dangerous, such as driving or playing sports. If you are nervous about the surgery, rest assured that cataract removal is a standard procedure that is safely performed countless times each year. As a result, our patients can achieve a noticeable improvement in vision.
Improve vision with cataract surgery in Las Vegas
Unfortunately, many people do not realize they even have cataracts until it is too late. Patients miss out on participating in activities they love because of blurry or cloudy vision. This is why Nevada Eye Physicians in Boulder City, Henderson, Mesquite, Las Vegas, and Pahrump, NV, recommends getting a comprehensive eye screening each year. Learn about cataract surgery in Las Vegas by giving our office a call today. We can help you improve your vision.