FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

CATARACTS

What is a cataract ?
When the human lens inside the eye becomes cloudy.

How does this make vision poor ?
In a number of ways, but mainly because light rays are scattered as they enter the eye.

Does a 'skin' form ?
No. This an old wives' tale.

When are cataracts 'ripe' ?
This is also an old fashioned concept. Cataract surgery is needed when vision falls to unacceptable levels.

Are cataracts removed by laser ?
No. Even better, they are removed with a tiny vibrating ultrasonic probe. An artificial lens is then left in the eye
to do the job of the original one.

What precautions do I take after surgery ?
Surgeons differ here. My advice is to continue exactly as normal. If the operation has been done properly you have nothing to fear. Some patients return to yoga / the golf course / the pub, the following day.

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MACULAR DEGENERATION

What is macular degeneration ?
Like every part of the body, the retina undergoes aging and degenerative changes. These are more serious in some patients than others. Macular degeneration is how we describe more severe wear and tear changes in the retina.

Why can't it be helped by spectacles or operations ? Sometimes it can, which is the reason your optician or doctor has recommended referral.

Will I go blind ?
No. But it may stop you reading easily.

I've heard that diet and vitamins help.
We now know that in some patients this is true.

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DIABETES AND THE EYE

How does diabetes affect the eye ?
Diabetes causes problems throughout the body by affecting the tiny blood vessels ( capillaries ). The eye has a rich supply of capillaries and eyesight suffers if these become diseased.

Exactly how ?
In a number of ways but mainly because the capillaries become leaky and make the retina waterlogged. A waterlogged retina, just like a waterlogged ham sandwich is no good at all.

How can these changes be avoided / treated ?
Firstly, good diabetes control.
Secondly, avoid smoking.
Thirdly, have your eyes regularly examined.
Finally, if you have a problem make sure you see an ophthalmologist with expertise in managing diabetes complications - he or she may save your sight.

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