What will happen if a cataract is left untreated?

Cataract treatment is safe and highly effective. If you have a cataract in one or both eyes, it’s essential to seek treatment early on.  

What happens when cataracts are left untreated

If a cataract is left untreated, vision will continue to worsen. As cataracts progress, they also put the eye at increased risk for other sight-threatening diseases like glaucoma. This condition does not get better over time. Some treatments may slow the progress, but leaving it completely untreated will not yield positive results. 

How to treat cataracts 

Many adults do not know they have a cataract until they get an eye exam. In the early stages of cataracts, minor lifestyle changes may minimize symptoms. Wear anti-glare glasses and sunglasses. Use a magnifying glass or corrective lenses for reading. If you struggle to see at work or home, try using brighter lights or adding more task lighting. 

In the later stages of cataracts, surgery is the best treatment. The surgery removes the clouded lens on your eye and replaces it with an artificial one. If you have cataracts in both eyes, the doctor may recommend doing surgery on one and completing the second eye after healing.  

How long does cataract treatment last?

Cataract treatment is designed to be permanent. There are occasions when results don’t go as planned, but the majority of adults experience a complete transformation after surgery. Continue with routine eye exams to monitor and prevent additional vision issues. 

How to find out if you have a cataract

The best way to discover cataracts is with routine eye exams. Smoking may increase your risk of cataracts, as well as a family history of ocular issues. Here are some symptoms to watch out for:

• Night vision trouble
• Seeing double 
• Blurry or cloudy vision
• Colors look more faded than they used to
• Seeing halos around lights or lights looking brighter than they should

Oklahoma City Vision offers comprehensive eye exams, including cataracts evaluations and treatment. Reach out to schedule your first appointment.