Saturday, August 10, 2013

Essential Information About Cataract Surgery Orange County Residents Need To Know

By Andrea Davidson


Cataract surgery is performed to remove a cloudy lens and replace it with a synthetic one that is more clear and transparent. It is performed by an eye specialist referred to as an ophthalmologist. It is a safe surgical procedure used to improve vision. Cataracts increase glare from lights and cause blurry vision. They are common in people with macular degeneration that results from aging, and diabetic retinopathy. After cataract surgery Orange County residents acquire improved vision which allows them to lead a better life.

There are various symptoms that are signs of cataracts. Common ones include blurry or cloudy vision, poor night vision, double vision, multiple images in one eye and glare. Frequent changes on the type of contact lenses or eye glasses are also a common indicator. These may also be signs of other eye problems. To effectively detect cataracts it is necessary to perform a comprehensive eye scan. The tests performed include dilated eye exam, tonometry, and visual acuity test among others.

In its early stages, the symptoms of this condition may be improved with magnifying glasses, new eye glasses, anti-glare sunglasses or brighter lighting. If these measures fail, cataract surgery is the only effective solution. Ophthalmologists examine the patients and brief on various things about procedure. These include the alternatives, benefits, risks and expected results. If the surgery is delayed, cataracts may cause permanent damage to the eye.

Prior to the surgery, a comprehensive eye scan is performed to evaluate the structure and the overall health of the eye. It also helps to identify risk factors and any conditions that may limit the candidacy of the patient for the operation. Ophthalmologists perform refraction to measure the exact farsightedness, nearsightedness and astigmatism. Other measurements include the length and curvature of the eye.

This procedure takes a short time. The time taken to recover is very short and the patients are able to resume work after a single day. The session lasts for about 30 minutes and the results are immediate. Surgeries involving two eyes are preformed separately.

There has been significant growth in the field of cataract surgery. A more advanced surgical procedure known as phacoemulsification has now emerged. This procedure uses radiation of high frequency to split the cloudy eye lens into fine pieces. These pieces are then removed through suction techniques. There are several advantages associated with this technique. The incisions made are smaller which reduces recovery period and reduces chances of complications.

Complications after this procedure are uncommon. However, there are certain individuals who are at a greater risk. These include children and individuals suffering from severe myopia, diabetic retinopathy or advanced glaucoma. Those with a history of using certain drugs are also at a greater risk. Other complications include inflammation, eye infection, cornea injuries and retinal detachment. Posterior capsule opacification is corrected through laser surgery.

There are certain things about cataract surgery Orange County residents need to be aware. Most doctors specify a number of precautions to be observed during the recovery period to ensure the healing is successful. These include avoiding strenuous activities such as heavy lifting, physical exercises, bending among others. It is also important to practice proper hygiene and prevent the wound form coming into contact with water which may cause infections.




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