SHREVEPORT, La. -- June is Cataract Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating people about one of the most common age-related eye conditions and the steps they can take to protect their vision.
According to ophthalmologists, cataracts are a typical part of the aging process for many adults. However, advances in cataract surgery have expanded treatment options, giving patients more choices than ever when it comes to their vision goals after surgery.
For those diagnosed with cataracts, the next step is often a comprehensive eye evaluation. During that appointment, specialists perform several tests to determine the best course of treatment and identify the most appropriate artificial lens for each patient.
"Well, you know, we're going to do a series of tests, probably four or five main tests," said Dr. Wyche Coleman III of The Cataract Surgeons. "Number one is to measure the length of the eye, the power of the cornea, the amount of astigmatism. We want to take some detailed measurements of the retina to make sure that the rest of the eye is healthy, photos of the back of the eye, so that we can compile enough objective data to say what is the best lens choice for a particular person based on how they want to see afterwards."
Doctors say there are also steps people can take to help reduce their risk of developing cataracts or delay the need for surgery. These include wearing sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats to limit exposure to ultraviolet rays, maintaining a diet rich in antioxidants and nutrients such as vitamins C and E, lutein and omega-3 fatty acids, avoiding tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption, and managing chronic health conditions.
Experts encourage regular eye exams, especially as people age, to help detect cataracts and other vision problems early and preserve long-term eye health.