When Is It Time for Cataract Surgery?

 

Cataracts affect more than 24 million Americans age 40 and older and are the most common cause of treatable vision loss in people 55. Cataracts generally develop slowly and painlessly, but sooner or later, you are bound to experience one or more of the following symptoms:

>Blurred Vision-Blurriness is one of the earliest and most common signs of cataracts. Changing your prescription may help, but it can’t correct the problem permanently.

>Faded or Dull Colors-Colors appear less vivid than they once were. Certain shades can become more difficult to differentiate from one another.

>Poor Night Vision-At first, you may simply need more light to read. Over time, you may find it more difficult to see objects in the dark, particularly when driving.

>Sensitivity to Light-Lights may seem uncomfortably bright, or appear to have halos around them.

Left untreated, cataracts have the potential to cause a significant loss of vision and compromise your safety and mobility. The decision to have cataract surgery & lens implants is a personal one that you and your eye doctor can decide based on how much your cataracts interfere with your daily activities. Some things to consider, when considering cataract surgery:

·        Can you see to safety do your job and to drive?

·        Do you have problems reading or watching TV?

·        Is it difficult to cook, shop, climb stairs or take medications?

·        Do vision problems affect your independence?

·        Do bright lights make is harder to see?

If you or someone you know is experiencing cataract symptoms such as cloudy foggy vision, glare or difficult night driving and would like to learn more about cataract surgery & lens implants please call Doctor & Associates-203-227-4113, visit Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County, or Facebook to schedule an appointment.

Doctor & Associates offices are conveniently located at 129 Kings Highway North, Westport, Connecticut 06880, 195 Danbury Road, Wilton, Connecticut 06897 and 148 East Avenue, Norwalk, Connecticut 06851.

 

Sunglass Choice Helps Prevent Eye Damage

Did you know that too much sun on unprotected eyes increases the risk of eye disease? The good news is that prevention is simple: Wear sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of UVA and UVB radiation. But there are a lot of common myths about sunglasses and eye health. Here is some information to help debunk the myths and provide tips to promote smart eye health choices.

Myth #1: Sunglasses are Only for Sunny Days
False. UV light gets through clouds and haze. Regardless of the season, sun exposure can increase the risk of developing cataracts, growths on the eye and cancer. Sun reflecting off ice and snow can also lead to photokeratitis, a painful eye condition sometimes referred to as snow blindness.

Myth #2: Babies and Children Don’t Need to Wear Sunglasses
False. Children are just as susceptible to the sun’s harmful rays as adults. Start them on healthy habits early.

Myth #3: Cheap Sunglasses Don’t Offer Protection
False. Sunglasses don’t have to cost a lot of money to provide adequate eye protection. Less expensive pairs marked as 100 percent UV-blocking can be just as effective as more expensive options. Labels can sometimes be confusing. Some indicate sunglasses offer 100 percent protection from UVA/UVB radiation, others offer 100 percent UV 400 protection. Both block 100 percent of the sun’s harmful radiation.

Myth #4: Size Doesn’t Matter
False. The more coverage sunglasses provide, the less sun damage inflicted on the eyes. Consider oversized sunglasses or wraparound-style glasses, which can help cut down on UV light entering the eye from the side. Wraparound glasses may also protect against dry eye due to the wind.

Myth #5: Polarized Lenses Offer More Sun Protection
False. Polarized lenses do not block more radiation; however, they can cut down on glare reflecting off cars, water or pavement, which can make activities such as driving or boating more enjoyable. 

Myth #6: Darker Lenses Offer More Sun Protection
False. The darkness of the lens isn’t indicative of protection. Make sure the label on the lens says 100% UV-blocking.

Myth #7: Tinted lenses offer more Sun Protection
False. Amber, green and grey lenses do not block more of the sun’s harmful rays. However, tinted lenses do offer increased contrast for those who play sports, making a softball or a golf ball easier to see.

Your eyes need protection from the sun’s damaging ultraviolet rays just like your skin. Sunglasses are your prescription for eye health. They are effective, inexpensive, and provide protection year-round. Schedule an appointment to select and be fit with fashionable sunglasses to look good and protect your eyes! Call us at Doctor & Associates-203-227-4113, visit Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County, or Facebook to schedule an appointment.

Doctor & Associates offices are conveniently located at 129 Kings Highway North, Westport, Connecticut 06880, 195 Danbury Road, Wilton, Connecticut 06897 and 148 East Avenue, Norwalk, Connecticut 06851.