June is Cataract Awareness Month and we want to remind you how important early detection is to slow the spread of this sight-robbing disease. Cataracts develop slowly and can affect one or both of the eyes—causing clouding in the lens—which in turn leads to a decrease in vision and possible blindness.
Symptoms of Cataracts
- Blurry or foggy vision.
- Decreased night vision or halos around lights.
- Colours aren’t as vivid as they used to be.
- Sunlight seems to be overly bright and/or glaring.
Cataract Causes
Age is the most common cause of cataracts as lens proteins degrade over time, causing the cloudiness. Some cases can be attributed to eye trauma, which can cause swelling and thickening of the eye. There is some evidence to support the fact that ultraviolet light from the sun can contribute to the formation of cataracts.
Prevention
Protecting your eyes and engaging in an overall healthy lifestyle are always recommended to slow the progression of cataracts. Wearing sunglasses outside, eating healthy and refraining from smoking and alcohol are all encouraged to help slow the spread of the disease. The best way to detect cataracts early, and therefore delay the onset of significant symptoms, is to have your eyes checked annually.
Treatment
Cataracts in the early stages can be treated with new prescription eyeglasses; however, if a stronger prescription isn’t effective, surgery is the only effective treatment. Usually an outpatient procedure, the surgery involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial one.
Hakim Optical has been serving Canadians for 50 years and will continue to provide our customers with top quality eyewear and vision service for 50 more!
Don’t wait, schedule your annual eye exam today to ensure your eyes are healthy and you’re screened for cataracts.