Cataracts are a widespread problem that affects very large numbers of elderly people, sometimes causing blindness and greatly impairing our ability to function as a result. Thankfully, modern ophthalmology allows us to treat the problem with very good results, even though the underlying causes of cataracts can not truly be reversed. At Acclaro Eye Care in North Oaks, we perform expert cataract surgery to help Twin Cities residents from Shoreview and other communities enjoy clear, functional vision for the rest of their lives.
Causes and Symptoms of Cataracts
The Cataract Surgery Procedure
Cataracts form when proteins in the crystalline lens of the eye begin to clump together. As they do so, they cloud the lens and block more and more light from reaching the retina at the back of the eye. The factors that encourage these proteins to mass together are varied, ranging from ultraviolet light and smoking to diabetes and the development of other eye diseases such as glaucoma, and they are not all fully understood. Even if you avoid all of these factors, it may not even be possible to completely eliminate the risk that you will suffer from cataracts at some point as you age.
A number of phenomena can signal the development of cataracts, and all people should watch out for them as they move on through life. Changes in vision, including cloudiness, distortion, perceived tint changes, progressive loss of acuity, and halos around lights, may indicate the presence of the disease. If you have experienced any of these symptoms, you should visit an ophthalmologist to have your eyes examined and to develop a treatment plan.
If your ophthalmologist determines that your vision is indeed being impaired by cataracts, you may be asked to discontinue risky behaviors that foster the development of the problem. If the cataracts are interfering with your ability to function on a day-to-day basis, cataract surgery may be a viable in option.
In this procedure, the eye's cloudy natural lens is removed and replaced with an appropriate intraocular lens (IOL). Your eye will first be numbed, after which your ophthalmologist will make a small incision through which he can insert a small instrument that will break up and remove the natural lens. The new IOL is then inserted and the surgery is complete. While it may sound frightening, the procedure is very safe and effective, and usually takes around ten minutes. Moreover, because Acclaro Eye Care provides advanced IOLs that are suited to viewing things both up close and far away, conditions such as presbyopia may improve as well after the surgery. While cataract surgery is almost always an optional move, the vast majority of patients greatly enjoy the benefits that it provides.
As important as all of our senses are, sight is among the most indispensable. By undergoing cataract surgery at our practice serving Shoreview and the whole Twin Cities region, including St. Paul, you can ensure that cataracts will not rob you of the ability to see the world around you. Contact Dr. Conrad's office today to start the process towards becoming free from cataracts with the help of our North Oaks ophthalmologist.
If you are suffering from cataracts and want to explore cataract surgery, contact our North Oaks practice serving Shoreview and the Twin Cities area.
Acclaro Eye Care
200 Village Center Drive
Suite 300
North Oaks, Minnesota 55127
Telephone: 651.484.EYES (3937)
Fax: 651.482.0896