Poor night vision. Cloudy or blurry images. Unpleasant glare from car headlights.
Although most people who have symptoms of cataracts are over the age of 80, many people begin to notice these vision changes when they are in their forties.
“Younger people can have cataracts, too, especially diabetics,” said Dr. Paul M. Griffey, a third-generation ophthalmologist at Griffey Eye Care and Laser Center.
Fortunately, mild cataract symptoms can often be treated with new eyeglasses, brighter lighting, anti-glare sunglasses or magnifying lenses, according to the National Eye Institute.
When these approaches do not help, surgery to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with an artificial one is the only effective treatment.
Griffey Eye Care and Laser Center is one of the few local practices in South Hampton Roads that offers state-of-the-art laser surgery to remove cataracts.
Dr. Griffey performs both laser cataract surgery and traditional cataract surgery, which remains a safe and effective option for patients.
During laser cataract surgery, Dr. Griffey uses a computer controlled LenSx® Laser System, which customizes many of the difficult steps in refractive cataract surgery for optimum precision.
“The procedure is pretty quick, lasting seven to 10 minutes,” said Dr. Griffey, who has been practicing ophthalmology for 14 years.”We can perform the laser surgery without any shots or stitches. Patients are typically driving the next day.”
The laser can also correct astigmatism during cataract surgery, reducing the need to wear glasses.
The first step toward treating cataracts and enjoying better vision is to have a comprehensive eye exam that includes:
- Visual acuity test – measures the ability to see at various distances.
- Dilated eye exam – examines the retina and optic nerve for damage and other eye problems.
- Tonometry – measures the pressure inside the eye.
Cataracts only need to be removed when they interfere with your ability to drive, read, watch TV, and work. Many people who need cataract surgery often have other eye problems such as glaucoma or age-related macular degeneration.
The vast majority of people see a significant improvement in their vision after cataract surgery, according to federal health sources.
Call 757-776-0416 to schedule an appointment with us.
Learn more about cataract treatments at Griffey Eye Care and Laser Center.
Source: National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health
