If you have the symptoms of cataracts, or have been told that you have this eye condition, you may know that the only way to get back the vision you once had is to have your clouded lenses removed and replaced with the appropriate intraocular lens. Cataracts do not go away on their own, and cannot be treated with healthy diet, eye-health supplements, or medication of any kind. To restore vision, surgery is necessary.
Why?
Let’s look at what a cataract is . . . This condition describes cloudiness on the natural lens. The reason this occurs is because the protein particles have accumulated on this part of the eye. As more cells settle on the lens, the whole becomes compacted, like a close-knit family of tiny particles. Eventually, protein buildup becomes severe enough to affect vision. To date, researchers have not been able to identify how to stop this buildup from progressing. Until they do, the only way to restore vision is to replace the lens.
A Matter of Time
Cataracts can be removed with appropriate surgery, so there is the promise of restored vision. What this means to you as the patient is that you can say when you want to have surgery. No symptoms dictate this for you. If you cannot drive or engage in the activities you would like, then now is as good a time as any to get your life back by getting your vision back.
All Things Considered
All things considered, cataract surgery is minimally invasive and efficient. Prior to cataract surgery, of which Dr. Murrell has performed thousands, a thorough consultation and examination is performed. This helps you and your doctor to determine the appropriate replacement lens, called an IOL. The ideal lens will help you see clearly at important distances without having to rely on eyeglasses. Sometimes, patients find that they need corrective eyeglasses to see up close, or to see at a distance. In most cases, however, this need is decreased substantially.
Are cataracts keeping you from living as fully as you’d like? Contact one of our Amarillo area offices to consult with Dr. Murrell about removal.