Though cataracts are inside the eye, they are somewhat noticeable from the outside when they begin to grow. A cataract is an area in the lens of the eye where proteins have started to clump up and solidify. To the outside, this looks like a dense and cloudy area in the lens. Over time, this build-up of protein continues and will start affecting vision in the affected eye.
Some symptoms to watch for include blurring vision, troubles with night vision, fading of color, and sensitivity to glares. Since cataracts are painless yet can cause a progressive loss of vision, including blindness, it is important to see your ophthalmologist if you believe you have symptoms that might indicate a cataract.
Although there is no cure for cataracts, your vision can be restored, if they are caught soon enough. Cataract surgery has one of the highest success rates of any surgical procedure, with a success rate of over 99%. Best of all, the procedure is painless, takes less than 30 minutes, and requires very little recovery time.
After your procedure, you will be taken to a recovery room to rest for a few hours before going home. At night, you will wear a plastic eye guard and frequently apply eye drops to help heal. Other than a follow-up with your surgeon the following day, that is the extent of the recovery. Most patients report having complete vision restoration within a few days.
If you have visual symptoms that are beginning to affect your way of life, contact W. John E. Murrell in Amarillo, TX at (806) 351-1177, or visit wjohnwmurrell.com to schedule a consultation today. The expert team will work with you to provide the best solution to give you perfect vision again.