As we age our eyes can become affected by several different conditions that can impact vision and eye health. At the same time the eyes are also susceptible to other conditions that aren’t related o age. That is why it is so important to have annual eye examinations from our Philadelphia ophthalmologist at IC Laser Eye Care to continue to monitor the health of the eyes as well as the visual acuity at that moment in time since frequent changes needed in vision correction can be an indicator of more serious problems developing.
On problem that many people face that is related to the aging process is a cataract. A cataract is a naturally occurring clouding of the eye’s lens that is generally the result of aging with the majority of cases occurring in people over 55. The condition usually develops slowly over time and creates blurry or hazy vision and that gradually causes blindness in that eye if left untreated. Cataracts develop in one eye or can be present in both eyes independently. Many cataract sufferers also complain of difficulty seeing in glaring light and finding it hard to drive when the streets are wet or at dusk. Our Philadelphia ophthalmologist can diagnose a developing during a routine dilated eye examination, however, it is up to the patient to decide when the time has come to treat the cataract. The treatment for cataracts is surgery, which is recommended by our doctor whenever the patient’s vision and life has been seriously impacted.
Our Philadelphia ophthalmologist will remove the cloudy lens and replace it with a clear artificial intraocular lens. Our doctor will make a small incision in the cornea to get to the lens and then use a process called phacoemulsification, which uses a small probe that breaks up the lens with ultrasound technology and vacuums up the pieces. The new lens is generally inserted through the same small incision helping to avoid scarring and stitching with minimal healing time. If your vision is getting blurry or cloudy call our office for an appointment.
By IC Laser Eye Care
May 24, 2019
