Since vision is a critical component of health, some people suffering from eye cataracts consider having cataracts surgery. Without good eyesight, it becomes difficult to engage with family and friends. It also gets harder to drive safely, work effectively, and enjoy hobbies. As eyesight degrades further, it may even become unsafe to live alone. Unfortunately, cataracts greatly increase the chances of poor vision. That’s why so many people have corrective eye surgery. Now the question is … should you?
Understanding the Cons of Cataracts Surgery
In this article:
- What Are Cataracts?
- Why People Consider Cataracts Surgery
- The Downsides of Cataracts Surgery
- How to Make Surgery as Safe as Possible
What Are Cataracts?
Cataracts are a clouding of the lens of the eye. This occurs when protein builds up in and behind the lens. The result is a cloudy, blurry or gray vision. Lights may appear uncomfortably bright, or halos may form around them. Night driving becomes harder and central vision degrades.
Many causes may lead to cataracts. Among the most common are family history, traumatic injury to the eye, and age. Some diseases can also cause cataracts, such as diabetes. Additionally, some medications include cataracts among their side effects.
Cataracts affect a huge number of people in the United States and around the world. According to the University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center, 90 percent of people over 65 have a cataract. Of those between 75 and 85, more than half have lost some vision due to it. Obviously, that’s not ideal. Most people want their vision to be as sharp as possible.
Why People Consider Cataracts Surgery
In the hopes of improving their condition, most people go for the more popular option — cataracts surgery. We have several contemporary treatments of cataracts most people are not aware of. Additionally, some lifestyle changes may help, including:
- avoiding nicotine and alcohol
- maintaining a healthy body weight
- avoiding much sun exposure
- protecting your eyes when engaging in sports or projects
The Downsides of Cataracts Surgery
There are cases when cataracts surgery may have complications. The surgery may not have removed all the chunks of the cataract, which can lead to poor vision. Your eye may react to the anesthesia, leading to itchiness or stickiness. Some people experience pain, though again, that is rare. And in very extreme cases, vision may even degrade. Retinal detachment is also a possibility. The good news is even a surgery that goes poorly can be corrected. Many people go on to have a second surgery to correct the problem. This is usually effective.
Mild downsides include the need to wear dark glasses for a few days after surgery. You will not be able to drive or look at bright lights for a short period of time and will probably need to take a few days off of work.
How to Make Surgery as Safe as Possible
If an ophthalmologist recommends cataracts surgery, you may get a second opinion to be absolutely sure if that makes you more comfortable. However, the main methods for staying safe involves your post-surgery care.
You should avoid driving the first day after surgery. Many people wear an eye patch afterward, but even if you do not, your vision will not be very clear. Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activity, and bending over, especially for the first few days. Try not to sneeze or vomit after surgery, if possible. Do not swim or use a hot tub and avoid dusty locations. Lastly, always make sure to use the antibiotic eye drops from your cataract surgeon as often as prescribed.
Watch this webinar by Edward Kondrot to learn the alternative treatments of cataracts to avoid surgery:
At the end of the day, only you can decide if cataracts surgery is the right move. If you still aren’t sure about the side effects or possible consequences, it’s best to talk to your eye doctor. They can explain the pros and cons in more detail so you can make the best possible decision for you. Also, get to know other treatment options such as chelation, CAN-C, eye drops, OcluMed, microcurrent, light therapy, and homeopathy.
What treatment options are you considering for your cataracts? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!