OPHTHALMOLOGY

Q: I am 61 and my vision has improved without the use of my glasses. Can you tell me why this might be happening?

A: The phenomenon you are describing, known as second sight, has a simple physiological explanation and is associated with the development of nuclear sclerosis cataracts or NS for short. NS is the most common type of age-related cataract and it causes the hardening and yellowing of the central portion of the lens of the eye. As the lens hardens, it changes the way light is bent and focused as it enters the eye and your vision may go through a phase where either the near or distance vision gets ‘better’ and you may experience a decreased need for glasses. While it may appear that your vision has improved, the fact is that this phase is only temporary. As the cataract progresses, the second sight is lost and both near and distance vision will deteriorate. At this point, changes in eyeglass prescriptions may no longer be effective in improving your vision due to the cataract and it may be time to consider cataract surgery. As to how long an experience with second sight may last, or if it may ever occur, is dependent on each individual’s visual characteristics and the presence and development of NS which tends to progress slowly. Cataracts are a normal part of the aging process and may require years of gradual development before they affect your vision. If you are concerned about cataracts or experiencing second sight, contact your eye doctor for a complete, dilated exam including a refraction for eyeglasses. Your eye doctor can also discuss with you the facts about vision changes with age, cataracts, second sight, and the latest cataract surgery options if needed. 9485 Mentor Ave., #110, Mentor 44060 440-255-1115 www.opivision.com