What are cataracts?

A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s lens which causes blurred or distorted vision. Cataracts are a common byproduct of the aging process (though they can also be caused by other medical problems, injury to the eye or previous eye surgery). As the eye ages, a buildup of protein forms on the lens. This buildup prevents light from passing through the lens and focusing objects onto the retina. This disrupts the normal function of the eye and interrupts clear vision.  

 While cataracts are typically associated with aging, they can also occur due to disease, injury, birth defect or certain medications. Symptoms can include:

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• Cloudy or blurred vision
• Difficulty seeing objects in the distance
• Sensitivity to light and glare, or seeing halos around lights
• Double vision
• Problems with night vision
• Vision distortions that cause you to see “ghost” images
• Colors seem yellowed or dull

A cataract can be the reason sharp images become blurred, bright colors become dull or, seeing at night becomes more difficult. It may also be the reason why reading glasses and bifocals no longer seem to help. 

As cataracts worsen, the reduction in vision can start to interfere with daily life. This is a problem that can be easily corrected by cataract surgery. Cataract surgery is a common and safe procedure that can restore your vision. Our skilled ophthalmologists use advanced techniques and premium lenses to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.

Cataract surgery is a very common and effective procedure to restore clear vision. It is possible, and sometimes even recommended, that you live with cataracts for years before undergoing surgery if they are not affecting your daily life. At Saland Vision, we perform exams to assess your cataract development and recommend cataract surgery when necessary.  

A cataract evaluation at Saland Vision involves several pain-free tests to determine your eye health. These cataract tests are very important to identify the presence, severity and position of any cataracts that may be affecting your vision. Plan to spend 90 minutes at our office for this evaluation.

• Visual acuity test to assess your distance and near vision
• Refractive error measurement to determine your glasses prescription
• Assessment of your lenses to determine the presence of any cataracts
• Evaluation of your retinal health (back of the eye)
• Eye pressure measurement to determine the presence of glaucoma
• Review of your overall health

Depending on the outcome of these initial tests, your Dallas cataract doctor may request other testing if other eye issues are suspected.

The retinal examination requires that your eyes be dilated so it is easier for the doctor to see the back of your eye. Because of this fact, you may want to have someone drive you home after your cataract evaluation.

We view the cataract evaluation as a two-way communication street: we will ask you questions about how your vision is interfering with your daily activities and we encourage you to ask any question you have about your condition and your treatment options. At Saland Vision, we are committed to providing you with as much education as possible so you can make your own informed decision about how to care for your eye health.

Contact us today to schedule a cataract evaluation and learn more about your options for vision improvement.