Cataracts Diagnosed

How are cataracts diagnosed?
During a comprehensive, dilated eye exam, your Eye M.D. uses several tests to check for cataracts:

• Slit-lamp: This device uses an intense line of light to illuminate the eye’s cornea, iris, lens and the space between the iris and cornea. The doctor is able to examine the eye in small sections, making it easier to detect abnormalities.
• Retinal exam: When your eye is dilated, the pupils are wide open so the doctor can more clearly see the back of the eye. Using the slit lamp and/ or an instrument called an ophthalmoscope, the doctor looks for signs of cataract and if present, the extent of the clouding. Your Eye M.D. will also look for signs of glaucoma and other potential problems with the retina and optic nerve.
• Refraction and visual acuity test: This refers to the sharpness and clarity of your vision. Each eye is tested individually for the ability to see letters of progressively smaller size. The doctor determines whether you have 20/20 or less acute vision with the best possible glasses during the refraction.

Once I know I have cataracts, what should I do?

• Have an eye exam every year if you’re older than 65, or every two years if younger.
• Protect your eyes from UV light by wearing 100 percent UV blocking sunglasses and a hat.
• If you smoke, quit; smoking can increase cataract progression.
• Use brighter lights for reading and other activities; a magnifying glass may be useful, too.
• Limit night driving once night vision, haloes or glare become problems.
• Take care of any other health problems, especially diabetes.
• Get the right eyeglasses or contact lenses to correct your vision; when it becomes too difficult to complete your regular activities, consider cataract surgery.

Do not use eye drops or other treatments that claim to dissolve or remove cataracts. There is no proven way to dissolve cataracts with eye drops. Surgery is the only way to remove cataracts.