Abstracted by Sheila Kun RN, BA, BSN, MS

Source: Cleveland Clinic

Can I prevent cataracts?

Developing cataracts is a typical part of aging. However, you can take a few steps to protect your eye health and potentially slow the process:

• Don’t smoke. Tobacco smoke raises your risk of cataracts. If you currently smoke, ask a healthcare provider for resources to help you quit.

• Protect your eyes from the sun. Wear sunglasses or eyeglasses with an anti-UV coating. A hat with a brim can also help.

• Get regular eye care. Ask your provider how often you should come in for checkups. Be sure to keep up with your appointments and tell your provider about any new or changing symptoms.

Outlook / Prognosis

What can I expect if I have cataracts?

An ophthalmologist or optometrist is the best person to ask about your outlook. They’ll examine your eyes and the severity of any cataracts you have.

Early on, you might not need surgery. The changes to your vision may be mild. But cataracts can progress over time, causing more noticeable symptoms. If your symptoms start to interfere with your daily life, your provider may recommend surgery to help you safely go about your usual tasks.

Living With

How can I take care of myself?

There’s a lot you can do to take care of yourself if you have cataracts. Tips include:

• Wearing polarized sunglasses to reduce glare in strong sunlight.

• Using a magnifying glass to help you read.

• Adding brighter lightbulbs to your lamps to help you see better when reading.

• Trying to avoid driving at night if the headlights bother you or cause glare.

• Seeing your eye care provider according to the schedule they provide and updating your eyeglasses prescription as needed.

• Managing any underlying medical conditions, like diabetes.

When should I see my healthcare provider?

Contact your provider if you have symptoms of cataracts or if you notice any changes in your vision. Issues like blurred vision can signal many potential eye problems, aside from cataracts. So, it’s important to see a provider and learn the cause of your symptoms so you can receive appropriate treatment.

When should I go to the ER?

Seek emergency care immediately if you have symptoms of a retinal detachment. This is a rare but serious complication of cataract surgery that affects about 1 in 100 people. Warning signs include:

• Sudden onset of floaters and flashes.

• Flashes of light you notice with your eyes open or closed.

• A shadow or curtain spreading across your line of sight.

What questions should I ask my eye care provider?

Some questions you may want to ask your provider include:

• Do I have signs of cataracts?

• How severe are the cataracts?

• What type are they and where are they located in my lens?

• Are both of my eyes affected?

• When do you think I might need surgery?

• What are the risks of surgery for me?

• What type of IOL would be best for me?

• What can I do to see better until I have surgery?

• What lifestyle changes should I make?

A note from Cleveland Clinic

Cataracts are a common part of aging, but that doesn’t make a diagnosis any more pleasant to hear. The prospect of eye surgery might make you feel nervous, and you might wonder what your vision will be like afterward.

Try not to worry too much. Remember that cataract surgery is one of the most common and routine procedures in the U.S. Chances are, you know at least one person who’s had the surgery and can serve as a resource for you. Talk to them and ask about their experiences. But don’t feel pressured or rushed to schedule surgery. Work with your provider to decide the right timing for you.

Your homework from the Care Ministry this week: describe the prevention of cataract.

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