Everyday Life with Cataract


Life with CataractCataract surgery is an elective procedure.  That means you can choose whether or not to have it.  In extremely rare circumstances it can cause lifelong problems such as blindness but these are not due to the cataract directly, but perhaps retinal detachment or other eye conditions or diseases, which may increase risk or make you more prone to certain eye problems.  People often wait to have cataract surgery, until they feel that they really need it.  In the meantime, a few simple steps can make life with cataract, easier.

There are different types of cataracts and each individual cataract varies.  For some, it can develop rapidly over a month for others it will go unnoticed for years.  In the early stages of a cataract when there are not many symptoms, lifestyle adjustments can help to manage the condition.  Many people with cataract find it difficult to read or do close up work.  A magnifying glass can help deal with the effects of cataract.  Other ways of living with cataract is to improve lighting.  By increasing the wattage of bulbs around the home, everything can seem clearer and clouded vision can become less disruptive.  Lamps can be made brighter and extra lightning can be added to the home.

In Britain eye tests are essential for everybody, when they reach an age when it is likely that they will have serious vision problems.   For people with cataract, glare is a common problem and this can be particularly problematic whilst driving and can make driving unsafe.  Night driving should be limited, as it can be particularly dangerous.  Sunglasses can help relive glare during the day, as can sunhats.  If you decide to wear sunglasses, ensure that they have good UV protection as some research suggests a link between cataract and UV rays.

22nd September 2008

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