OPHTHALMOLOGY

Gregory Eippert, MD

Q: I have two questions about cataracts. One, is there only one type of cataract, and two, can you ever wait too long to have a cataract removed?

A: Cataracts are a clouding of the natural lens in our eyes. Most cataracts are caused by aging changes. Cataracts are classified by how they look and where they occur in the lens. Basically, there are three types or classifications of cataracts. 1) Nuclear cataracts form in the central portion of the lens. 2) Subcapsular cataracts occur at the back of the lens. 3) Cortical cataracts form in the periphery of the lens. Your eye doctor can confirm for you the type of cataract you may have by performing a complete, dilated examination.

Cataracts progress at different rates, some slowly and others more rapidly, and it is impossible to predict how an individual’s cataracts may progress. The best indicator that it may be time to consider cataract surgery is when you find it difficult to perform your normal activities such as reading, driving, working, playing sports, etc. because of declining vision. Some patients are more tolerant of visual dysfunction than others and may choose to wait for cataract surgery. As a cataract matures, it becomes denser and harder. Mature cataracts that are allowed to develop over long periods of time can cause inflammation or increased intraocular pressure that can lead to glaucoma. When operating on a mature cataract, there is also the potential for increased risks during surgery however with today’s advanced technology, the removal of such cataracts tends to be easier with fewer complication rates. When to have cataract surgery is a personal decision and the key to selecting the right time will be based on how your vision is affecting your lifestyle and occupational activities. Talk with your eye doctor about how your cataracts are affecting your vision and your life. It is essential that the patient and their eye doctor work together to weigh the risks of surgery against the likely visual benefit. It is also important to understand that only you, the patient, can make the choice to have cataract surgery. It is the doctor’s responsibility to educate patients and provide them with the knowledge, along with risks and benefits, that patients need to know so they can make an independent and informed decision regarding cataract treatment. Gregory Eippert, MD 9485 Mentor Ave., #110, Mentor 44060 440-255-1115 www.opivision.com