JulEYE, an annual global initiative, is a month-long campaign dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of eye health, promoting preventive measures for maintaining good vision. Educating individuals about eye conditions, the importance of regular eye examinations, and healthy habits to protect and preserve eyesight remains at the forefront of this important initiative.
At Queensland Eye and Retina Specialists, we are committed to the motives of JulEYE, and we are dedicated to providing quality eyecare and patient information this month, and throughout the other eleven. This month, we call you to stand with QERS and learn more about your eyes and how to prioritise their health, so you can look into the future with confidence!
A key focus of JulEYE is educating individuals about cataracts, as this treatable condition affects approximately half of older Australians.
What are Cataracts?
Cataracts are a common eye condition where the natural lens inside the eye becomes clouded. The lens, which is typically clear, becomes progressively opaque, leading to a gradual decline in vision, and this can affect one or both eyes.
As cataracts progress, individuals may experience symptoms such as blurry or dim vision, increased sensitivity to glare, difficulty seeing at night, and a noticeable reduction in colour perception.
Laser surgery:
This procedure uses a focused beam of light to create small openings in the drainage system of the eye, allowing for improved fluid outflow and reducing intraocular pressure. The laser is also thought to remodel the outflow apparatus, increasing aqueous humour outflow.
What Makes Cataracts Worse?
Cataracts are primarily associated with aging – with proteins starting to ‘clump’ at around 40 years – but can also be caused by factors such as genetics, certain medical conditions (such as diabetes), and eye injuries. The severity of a cataract condition may also worsen as a result of prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation (such as through sunlight), smoking habits, exposure to smoke, and poor nutrition.
How Can I Prevent Cataracts Developing?
There is no sure-fire way to prevent cataracts, as this condition is primarily caused by aging, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk. Eating a healthy diet including plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help protect your eyes from damage. Quitting smoking is also important for cataract prevention, as smoking damages the eyes and increases the risk of cataracts. Sunglasses can protect your eyes from ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can damage the lens of the eye and lead to cataracts. You should also wear safety glasses when working with tools or doing other activities that could put your eyes at risk. Additionally, your doctor can detect cataracts early on, when they are most easily treated, if you have regular eye exams. Your doctor can also help you manage any health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, that increase cataract development risks.
What Should I Look for?
To identify cataracts early and promptly receive treatment, it is important to look for the following symptoms of cataract formation:
- Blurred vision: This is the most common symptom of cataracts. You may notice that your vision is blurry, especially in bright light.
- Double vision: Depending on the cataract’s position, you may see two images of a single object.
- Sensitivity to light: You may find that you are more sensitive to light, especially bright sunlight.
- Colours appear faded: Colours may appear less vibrant.
- Night vision problems: You may have trouble seeing at night or in low-light conditions.
- Glare: You may notice glare from lights, such as car headlights or streetlights.
- Need for stronger glasses: You may find that you need stronger glasses to see clearly.
How do I Know if I Have Cataracts?
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, you may have a cataract. It is important to visit your optometrist for an eye exam, and they can assess if you have this condition. Should you be affected by cataract, you will require a referral to an ophthalmologist for effective, evidence-based treatment, which may include eye surgery.
Will Cataracts Redevelop after Surgery?
No, cataracts cannot redevelop after surgery. The artificial intraocular lens (IOL) implant that is used to replace the cloudy lens cannot develop cataracts. However, a condition called posterior capsule opacification (PCO) can sometimes develop after cataract surgery, affecting approximately 20% of patients. PCO is a clouding of the posterior capsule, which is the thin membrane that holds the IOL in place, and can cause blurry vision, glare, and halos. PCO can be diagnosed by your optometrist or ophthalmologist. Treatment for this condition can be completed by your ophthalmologist.
Why Should I see QERS for Cataracts?
The ophthalmology team at Queensland Eye and Retina Specialists is highly experienced, with a wide range of specialties. Therefore, if you have other eye problems this JulEYE, our specialists can treat all conditions at once, resulting in less surgeries, faster recovery times, and reduced financial costs. QERS is also conveniently located next to the Brisbane Day Surgery, and free parking is provided for patients.
For more information about JulEYE and cataract treatment by our ophthalmologists at QERS, or to book an appointment, contact the professional, friendly team on (07) 3555 5960.