Cataract Detection & Prevention

Early detection is the key to identifying and treating cataracts before they worsen and impact qualify of life. There are some warning signs that indicate you may be developing cataracts, or another eye condition or disease.

Cataract Awareness and Prevention

Certain groups of people are more susceptible to developing cataracts than others. Knowing the risks and signs can help you care for your eyes and help you to maintain clear vision for longer. The professionals at the Waring Vision Institute in Charleston, SC are committed to the health and safety of their clients and use the most advanced technology available to detect eye problems, and Dr. Waring has innovated the entire field by developing newer, better surgical techniques.

Preventing Cataracts

Although cataracts occur inevitably with age, some ophthalmologists believe that a healthy, nutrient-rich diet can help prevent the development of cataracts. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and monitoring your weight can prevent other health conditions, like diabetes or obesity, which may be associated with cataract formation. Here are some other tips for preventing the development of cataracts:

Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Extended exposure to UV radiation has a negative effect on eye health, so make sure to wear sunglasses when exposed to the sun for long periods of time.
Moderate your alcohol and cigarette consumption. Excessive consumption of alcohol or smoking tobacco poses other health problems, but they can also play a part in the formation of cataracts.
Be aware of the risks of corticosteroid medications. Oral steroids, or corticosteroids, have been linked to cataracts when used extended period.
Make regular visits to the ophthalmologist. Get a comprehensive eye exam every year from experienced ophthalmologist Dr. George Waring. Early detection of certain symptoms may be helpful in retaining clear vision, and avoiding permanent damage.

Even those who live a healthy life, eat properly, maintain their weight, and protect their eyes can develop cataracts. Serious eyesight problems and even blindness can occur when cataracts are left untreated. Thankfully, the treatment is relatively painless and requires little downtime.

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Detecting Signs of Cataracts

Even with your best efforts to prevent cataracts, they often develop as a natural part of the aging process. Cataracts can develop due to genetic factors, environmental factors, and a client’s overall health. The first noticeable sign of cataracts is typically blurred vision. Because of the way the proteins in the eye’s lens group and clump together, the lens will create blurred images, distortion, or muted colors. The blurred vision begins slowly, and at first may be almost undetectable, but becomes more noticeable as it extends to a larger area of the lens, causing light scatter and glare or blocking light.

As the proteins block the incoming light, it can also be harder to see at night and create “halos” – glowing rings around objects or lights, particularly dangerous when driving. Double vision in one eye and frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescriptions can be the first signs of developing cataracts. It’s imperative to your eye health to seek treatment very soon after noticing any of these common signs of cataracts.

Surgery Risks & Recovery

As with any surgical procedure, cataract surgery has risks. During your initial consultation with our ophthalmologist, advise the surgeon of any medical conditions you have or medications you are currently taking. Certain medical conditions may inhibit the healing process or lead to complications. Inform us if you have had any other surgeries or other procedures on or near your eyes.

Your surgeon will provide aftercare instructions that are crucial to the healing process. The eyes will take up to two months to completely heal. Avoid rubbing or putting pressure near your eyes. Your surgeon may give you a special pair of glasses to protect your eyes from any dangerous bumps or scratches. Do not exercise or lift heavy objects as these can cause eyestrain. Keep your eyes clean and stay away from soap, dust, mold, mildew, or other contaminants. Apply all prescribed eye drops as Dr. Waring advises, as these drops aid in the healing process and help to ward off infection.

Treating Your Cataracts in Charleston, SC

Charleston and the surrounding communities of Columbia, Mount Pleasant, and Myrtle Beach have come to know and respect Dr. George Waring and his staff at the Waring Vision Institute. He focuses on providing the most advanced treatments, high quality care and modern surgical procedures, including laser cataract surgery and the most advanced lens implants to reduce your dependence on glasses for all distances, for every client. He is very knowledgeable has won numerous awards for his extensive work in ophthalmology. Schedule a consultation with our office for a thorough eye exam to check for early signs of cataracts, or to discuss cataract surgery.

Come to Our Charleston, SC Facility

Those who may be suffering from cataracts or signs of vision complaints associated with cataract development, even if early, are advised to be evaluated. Dr. George Waring of the Waring Vision Institute in Charleston, SC is a highly respected ophthalmologist who has dedicated his life the treatment of eye conditions, and is known for developing some of the most advanced procedures available in the USA. His practice is convenient to Mount Pleasant, Myrtle Beach, and Columbia, making award-winning, personalized eye care and advanced technology easily accessible to people in these communities.