What are Cataracts?
Just like a camera, your eyes have lenses to help you focus. They constantly adjust so you can see close detail one second, then see something in the distance in the next moment.
As part of the normal aging process, our lenses eventually become cloudy, which affects how clearly we see. Optometrists call this cloudiness – a cataract. Cataracts get worse over time and if you leave them untreated they can even cause blindness.
Cataracts are also caused by excessive exposure to sunlight, trauma to the eye, exposure to toxic material, certain medications and Diabetes.
What are the symptoms of Cataracts?
Your local Laubman & Pank Optometrist will be able to tell you if you have cataracts. Please book an eye test if you notice any of the following:
- Blurred vision.
- Glare (in particular at night).
- Reduced vision.
- Fading colour perception.
- Needing a brighter light for reading.
How to treat Cataracts?
Cataract surgery is the most commonly performed eye surgery in Australia. The operation is relatively simple with a short recovery time. It’s performed under local anaesthesia so you can go home afterwards.
Your local Laubman & Pank Optometrist will let you know if you require surgery and refer you to a specialist. During the procedure, the cloudy lens is replaced with a crystal clear plastic lens.