Understanding the Treatment Protocol for Cataracts in Wichita

Cataracts tend to progress slowly, but they can lead to blindness without eventual treatment. The cloudy area will usually slowly increase in size until it engulfs the entire lens. Even if just one eye is affected at first, it is likely that the other will develop cataracts as well. Before you experience vision reduction from the growing cataracts, you might notice light sensitivity as the main symptom. You should seek treatment from an optometrist as soon as you notice the problem to prolong the need for surgical correction.

Prescription Lenses

When caught early enough, optometrists can attempt to slow the disease progression with strong prescription lenses. Optometrists will usually try a stronger lens prescription to see if that offsets your decrease in vision. Either contact lenses or eyeglasses are suitable for this treatment option. Optometrists will have patients with cataracts return often for eye exams to keep a close watch on the size and location of the cataracts. Once the cataracts decrease your quality of life, it is time to talk about surgical repair options.

Surgical Repair

In later stages, the only treatment option for cataracts is surgical repair by an optometrist. Unlike corrective lenses, which slows the progression of the disease, surgery fully resolves the condition. The surgeon must replace the damaged natural lens with an intraocular lens to fully restore your vision. There are several different intraocular lenses used, including standard, toric and multifocal lenses.

Preparation

The cataract surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, so it is important to bring a driver with you to the clinic. The surgical center will instruct you on proper preparation and what to further expect from the procedure.

Procedure

The surgeon’s team will walk you through the process prior to the procedure and will visit with family once the procedure is complete. The procedure involves removing the natural clouded lens and replacing it with a synthetic lens that will work to focus your vision similar to the natural lens. A small incision is made into the cornea that allows the surgeon to make this exchange.

Recovery

Blurry vision, itching and irritation is common after the procedure. These sensations should only last a few days to a week. You will be instructed on use of prescription eye drops designed to decrease discomfort and improve healing times. Follow up appointments is necessary to allow your eye doctor to examine the healing tissues. Optometrists look for signs of infection or improper healing during the post-operative eye exams.

Obtaining Care from Our Wichita for Cataracts

If you suspect cataracts are developing in one or both of your eyes, you should make an appointment with your eye doctor at Wichita Optometry by calling 316-942-7496 for the Douglas office or 316-838-7797 for Amidon. Your Kansas eye doctor will perform a full evaluation to determine if your eyes are developing cataracts. If any signs of cloudiness are found, your optometrist will determine the severity of the condition and discuss treatment options.