A Boomer’s Guide to Cataract Surgery

If you live long enough, you’ll probably get cataracts. They’re caused by protein gradually building up on the lens in your eye and interfering with your vision.

Some things can be done to slow the process down. However, surgery to remove the natural lens and replace it is the only way to reverse the symptoms. Fortunately, today’s procedures have a very high success rate of over 95%.

The main things you’ll need to decide are when to have the operation and which kind of artificial lens to choose. If you’re a boomer with cloudy vision, find out what to expect with this guide to cataract surgery.

Having Cataract Surgery:

1. Spot the symptoms.
As your cataract blocks out light, you’ll probably experience blurry and foggy vision. It’s also common to perceive colors as being duller and to have trouble with glare.

2. Consider your age.

Many adults are having cataract surgery at younger ages. You may enjoy the benefits longer and recover faster.

3. Check your insurance.

On the other hand, insurance may not cover your surgery unless you meet the age and vision requirements. If you must wait, it’s usually safe except in extreme cases where the lens becomes too thick to remove.

4. Choose a lens.

You can choose different lenses depending on whether distance or reading vision is a higher priority for you. You may still need glasses, but your vision will probably be significantly improved. Your surgeon can help you weigh your options.

5. Pick an eye.

If you need treatment for both eyes, your surgeon can also help you decide on a timeline. Most patients wait for the first eye to heal before scheduling the second operation.

6. Bring a friend.

Cataract surgery is now an outpatient procedure, and you’ll probably be able to resume most daily activities within 24 hours. However, you’ll still need someone to drive you home.

7. Understand aftercare.

Your companion can also help you remember your doctor’s recommendations. You may need to wear an eye patch and use eyedrops to prevent infection.

8. Follow up.

If your vision becomes cloudy again after your eye has healed, you may have a secondary cataract. Your vision can be restored with a quick laser procedure called a posterior capsulotomy to open the membrane that holds your eye lens in place.

Slowing Down Cataracts:

1. Eat your antioxidants.

A diet rich in nutrients like vitamin C and E may lower your risk for cataracts. Eat citrus fruits, tomatoes, and potatoes.

2. Manage diabetes.

Excess blood sugar may cause cataracts. Talk with your doctor about how your diabetes may affect your eyes.

3. Wear sunglasses.

UV light exposure is another factor. Wear sunglasses or stay in the shade when you’re outside.

4. Quit smoking.

Cataracts are one more reason for giving up tobacco. Your chances of success increase each time you try to quit, especially if you combine multiple methods.

5. Drink responsibly.

Some studies have found that alcohol slightly increases the risk for cataracts. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, healthy adults over 65 should have no more than 7 drinks a week.

6. See your ophthalmologist.

Comprehensive eye exams are recommended every two years for adults 40 to 64 and annually for those 65 or older. Regular screenings can help you get appropriate treatment for cataracts and other age-related vision issues.

Taking care of your vision can help you to stay independent and active in your senior years.

If you’re having trouble seeing, even when you’re wearing your eyeglasses or contact lenses, talk with your eye doctor. Cataract surgery is a simple and very successful operation that could give you back your sight.

Read This Before You Have Laser Eye Surgery

Laser eye surgery has been around for more than 20 years now. An estimated 10 million happy customers have had the procedure in the United States, but some experts are still concerned about the risks.

On the bright side, the devices used in LASIK surgery, the most common form of treatment, have been approved by the FDA. Most patients end up with vision between 20/20 and 20/40, which is high enough to pass a driver's test.

Most complications are mild, but some can be serious. That includes permanent dry eyes, pain, and reduced or lost vision. The FDA has also warned about misleading advertising.

You can increase your chances of success by being an informed patient. Study this quick guide to what you can expect before, during, and after laser eye surgery.

Deciding on Laser Eye Surgery:

1. Understand the procedure.

The operation usually takes less than 30 minutes. Your doctor will give you a numbing agent and use a laser or a mechanical device to reshape your cornea. In some cases, you may need revision surgery to deal with side effects or adjust your vision further.

2. Review your background.

Many poor outcomes could be avoided by screening out patients for whom laser eye surgery is not recommended. There can be many reasons, such as thin corneas, cataracts, extremely poor vision, and other health issues. It also helps to be over 21, so your vision is less likely to change.

3. Find a practitioner.

Beware of aggressive sales tactics. You may want to stick with a university medical center or contact the American Academy of Ophthalmology for a referral.

4. Allow for aging.

Keep in mind that your vision can still naturally decline with age. You may eventually need reading glasses. Some older patients even opt for monovision, where one eye is left more nearsighted and the other more farsighted.

5. Check your finances.

Insurance will not cover LASIK surgery in most cases. You can usually use a flexible spending account or health savings account to pay for the expenses.

6. Consider your lifestyle.

If there's no medical reason holding you back, it’s still important to weigh the risks. You might long to be free of eyeglasses and contact lenses, or they might be satisfactory for you.

Aftercare for Laser Eye Surgery:

1. Expect side effects.

Some temporary symptoms are very common after LASIK surgery. You may experience dry eyes, burning, and itching. You may also notice glare, halos, and double vision. For most patients, these issues resolve themselves in the first year, or even within a few days.

2. Stay dry.

Shield your eyes from non-sterile water and other potential irritants. Be careful showering or take a bath instead. Wear sunglasses outdoors to minimize exposure to debris and bright lights.

3. Resist rubbing.

You’ll probably be tempted to touch your eyes, but it’s important to keep your hands off for at least a month. Lubricating with artificial tears can help.

4. Follow up.

Show up for your postoperative visits and follow your doctor’s recommendations. They’ll let you know when it’s safe to resume various activities and may prescribe eye drops to protect you from inflammation and infection.

5. Seek urgent care.

Call your doctor immediately if you have severe pain or any discharge, or if your symptoms become significantly worse. Prompt attention may save your eyesight.

Most patients are pleased with their decision to have laser eye surgery. If you’re hoping to join them, talk with your doctor to ensure that you’re an appropriate candidate and that your expectations are realistic.

Learn more about your health online when you read the rest of our information here about: Cataract guide and also download the free health report available there!

Warren Tattersall has been a full time nutritional consultant for over 35 years and works with people all over the world to help them improve their health, increase their personal energy levels and to use supplements to assist with diet related health issues.

Just send him a note on the form here - Contact Us - to request a personal no obligation one-on-one consultation with Warren

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