Don’t Fall for These 5 Cataract Myths
Few things are quite as misunderstood as cataracts. There are tons of myths floating around out there, and those myths can make it difficult to find factual information on the subject. It’s time to cut through the myths and understand the facts about cataracts.
Myth: Only Older People Develop Cataracts
You may think that only people in their later years can develop cataracts but the truth is, anyone can develop cataracts. It is true that your risk for developing cataracts increases greatly after you reach the age of 40, but many factors can increase your risk of cataract development. Children can be born with congenital cataracts, often a result of genetics. People under the age of 40 can develop early-onset cataract as a result of conditions such as diabetes. Cataracts don’t discriminate!
Myth: You Need to Have Surgery as Soon as a Cataract Develops
Many people think they need to rush right into surgery as soon as their eye doctor discovers a cataract, but that isn’t the case. In reality, you don’t need to have surgery until vision loss starts to interfere with your daily life. You will work with your eye doctor to determine the best time to have cataract surgery.
Myth: Special Eye Drops Can Dissolve Cataracts
There are some eye drops on the market that claim to dissolve cataracts, but that is a false claim. Eye drops are not an approved treatment for cataracts. The only way to get rid of cataracts is to have surgery. With a success rate of over 95 percent, you can go into your cataract surgery with confidence.
Myth: It Takes Weeks or Months to Recover from Surgery
Cataract surgery used to be a major ordeal, requiring a lengthy hospital stay and recovery. Luckily, that is no longer the case. Now, people can resume normal activities within a day or two after the surgery. You will need to protect your eyes at first, but other than that, you can get back to your normal life without any worries.
Myth: You Can Reverse Cataracts
Cataracts cannot be reversed. Once they form, the only way to handle the problem is to get surgery. However, you can slow the progression down quite a bit. If you have been diagnosed with cataracts, quit smoking and start wearing sunglasses with UV protection. Also, eat a balanced diet full of leafy green vegetables. You will still likely have to get surgery eventually, but this will give you more time before that happens.
How many of these myths did you believe? If you believed all of them, you are far from alone. The good news is that now that you know the truth behind the myths, you are a step closer to getting your eyesight back. Now, you are ready to schedule an eye appointment to check on your cataracts. Contact Dr. Pinke in Shelton, CT today to schedule your cataract surgery consultation!
