HealthQuest

Did you know that by the age of 80 about half of all Americans have had cataracts? The most common type occurs during the aging process as the clear “lens” of the eye becomes cloudy. Cataract symptoms include reduced or blurry day vision and trouble seeing at night (such as haloes and glare around objects). Sometimes, cataracts may cause double vision, or seeing multiple images in one eye.

If you notice any of these symptoms, call your ophthalmologist. New technology offers a variety of ways to help people with cataracts see better. Your doctor might change your eyeglass prescription or add anti-glare coating to your current glasses. Using brighter lighting, sunglasses, or a magnifying glass for reading might also help improve your vision.

Most eye doctors agree that cataracts need to be removed when vision loss begins to interfere with the activities of daily living. Cataract surgery is usually an outpatient procedure allowing patients to begin seeing better the next day. To make sure your eyes stay healthy, talk to your physician about any vision changes you may notice. Our eyes are the windows to the world!
Eye on glaucoma

An estimated two million Americans have been diagnosed with glaucoma. Statistics say two million more people have the eye disease, but don’t yet know it. That’s why some eye professionals call glaucoma the “silent vision stealer.” Open angle glaucoma is the most common type. Although there is not yet a cure, glaucoma can usually be controlled. Treatment for glaucoma will not restore lost vision. However, an eye physician can utilize numerous options to make sure no further vision is lost. Most often, treatment begins with eye drops that must be used exactly as your doctor prescribes. After a few months of using the eye drops, your physician can determine whether the medicine is working properly.

If you have a family history of glaucoma, make sure to inform your ophthalmologist. Routine diagnostic methods include visual acuity tests, field-of-vision screenings, a dilated pupil exam and tonometry (measuring your eye pressure). Persons aged 65-years and better should have a comprehensive eye exam at least every two years.
Help for the visually impaired

SDGE offers a service that makes it easier for people living with blindness or limited eyesight. Range dials, thermostats and other appliances can be modified to be controlled by touch. To request this free in-home service call SDGE at (800) 411-7343.

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