Why You Shouldn't Ignore Cataracts

You assume your vision will worsen as you age. You’ll probably start carrying readers with you at a certain point, for example. But don’t assume that all vision loss is something that’s just par for the course. If you have cataracts, early treatment can make a big difference in your ability to navigate the world safely. 

If you think you might have cataracts, don’t wait to make an appointment at any of our Benjamin Optical offices throughout New York City. Here, our team of optical experts quickly diagnose your cataracts, if you have them. And if you do, we can explore your treatment options with you to protect your vision long-term. 

Is it time for a cataracts appointment? Let’s look at the signs that it is. 

Cataract symptoms — and when to see an optometrist

Cataracts occur when the clear lens at the front of your eye gets cloudy. Because cataracts occur slowly, you might not notice these changes right away. Most people first identify that cataracts are impacting their vision when driving at night.

As the cataracts progress, you’ll notice more and more symptoms, including:

• Blurred vision
• Heightened light sensitivity
• Double vision
• Decreased ability to see colors
• Increased difficulty driving at night 

If these vision changes sound familiar, it’s time to come see our cataract experts. 

Left untreated, cataracts will continue to develop, making it harder and harder for you to see. This can make it difficult — and even unsafe — for you to move throughout your day. Even when you can still see well enough to drive or read street signs, cataracts can make it harder to see facial expressions, putting a strain on your relationships.

As if all of this weren’t enough, left untreated, cataracts can lead to blindness. 

Getting the right treatment for your cataracts

We tailor your cataract treatment to your eye’s current needs.

Early stages: cataract prevention and vision support

Lifestyle changes can help to slow the progression of cataracts. Our team works with you to implement prevention measures like:

• Proper sunglasses
• A healthy, balanced diet
• Smoking cessation
• Limiting alcohol intake

We also offer eyeglass prescriptions to help you see more clearly even with cataracts. 

Plus, with regular eye exams, we can continually monitor your cataracts. We will let you know when it’s time to consider the next step to protect your long-term vision. 

Later stages: cataract surgery

At a certain point, the time may come when you should have your cataracts removed. During this procedure, your cloudy lens gets replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). 

Fortunately, cataract surgery only takes about 10 minutes and you should be in and out in about an hour total, returning home to relax the same day. Recovery is almost always quick and straightforward, too. And in about a month, your eye will be completely healed. At that point, you’ll be able to see much more clearly. 

Don’t let cataracts compromise your vision. To get started with cataract care that can track with your vision through the years, call our team at Benjamin Optical or book your appointment online today.