Cataracts

Cataracts are common, affecting millions of people worldwide. If you’re experiencing poor or cloudy vision, visit Thomas Nix, MD, at Nix Eye Care and Surgery in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Poor vision due to cataracts is especially common. Fortunately, there are effective treatments and ways to protect your vision from further damage. Call the office or request an appointment online. 

Why are cataracts common?

Cataracts develop when the natural lens inside your eye becomes cloudy, making it harder for light to pass through clearly. This clouding usually occurs gradually as the proteins in the lens begin to break down and clump.

Cataracts are extremely common and most often age-related. As cataracts progress, they can interfere with daily activities such as reading, driving at night, and recognizing faces. Regular eye exams allow Dr. Nix to monitor changes early and recommend the right treatment at the right time.

Common cataract symptoms include:

• Blurry or cloudy vision
• Faded or yellowed colors
• Increased sensitivity to light or glare
• Reduced night vision
• Double vision in one eye

When should I schedule a cataract exam?

Because cataracts develop gradually, routine eye exams are the best way to detect changes early. Even if you don’t wear glasses or contacts, Dr. Nix recommends comprehensive eye exams every one to two years. If you notice vision changes, increased glare, or difficulty seeing at night, schedule an appointment sooner.

What happens during a cataract evaluation?

During your visit, Dr. Nix reviews your medical history and performs a detailed eye examination to assess the clarity of your lenses and overall eye health.

Your cataract evaluation may include:

Pupil dilation

Dilating your pupils allows your doctor to clearly view the lens and internal structures of the eye.

Visual acuity testing

This measures how well you see at various distances and helps identify vision changes caused by cataracts. Keep in mind, if your pupils are dilated, you may experience temporary light sensitivity and blurry near vision, so arranging a ride home can be helpful.

Slit lamp examination

This specialized microscope provides a close-up view of the lens to detect clouding and structural changes.

Retinal examination

Dr. Nix also examines your retina to rule out other conditions that could affect your vision.

How are cataracts treated?

Early-stage cataracts may not require immediate treatment. In many cases, updated prescription glasses, brighter lighting, and glare-reducing lenses can help improve vision.

When cataracts begin interfering with daily activities and cannot be managed with corrective lenses, surgery may be recommended. Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy natural lens and replacing it with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL).

If surgery becomes necessary, Dr. Nix can advise on the next steps. To protect your vision and monitor cataract development, schedule an eye exam by phone or online.