Cataracts are a leading cause of vision impairment worldwide, yet they remain surrounded by myths and misunderstandings. These misconceptions often prevent people from seeking timely care or fully understanding their condition. In this article, we address the most common cataract myths, backed by facts, to empower you with the knowledge needed to protect and preserve your vision.
Myth 1: Cataracts Are an Unavoidable Part of Aging
Fact: While cataracts are more likely as you age, they are not inevitable. Factors like prolonged UV exposure, smoking, diabetes, and even poor nutrition can increase your risk. Adopting a healthy lifestyle—such as wearing UV-protective sunglasses, avoiding smoking, and consuming antioxidant-rich foods—can help delay or reduce the likelihood of cataracts forming.
Myth 2: Only Older Adults Get Cataracts
Fact: Although cataracts are most common in people over 60, they are not exclusive to seniors. Cataracts can develop in younger people due to trauma, prolonged use of corticosteroids, medical conditions like diabetes, or even be present at birth (congenital cataracts). No matter your age, regular eye check-ups are vital to catch and address such conditions early.
Myth 3: Cataracts Can Be Cured with Glasses or Eye Drops
Fact: While glasses may temporarily improve vision during the early stages of cataracts, they do not treat the condition. Currently, the only effective treatment is surgery to remove the clouded lens and replace it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Claims of “cataract-dissolving” eye drops are not supported by scientific evidence.
Myth 4: Cataracts Must Be ‘Ripe’ Before Surgery
Fact: The idea of waiting for cataracts to “ripen” before surgery is outdated. Advances in modern cataract surgery mean that you don’t have to wait until your vision is severely impaired. If cataracts are affecting your quality of life—whether it’s difficulty reading, driving, or recognizing faces—surgery can be performed to restore clear vision.
Myth 5: Cataract Surgery Is Painful and Risky
Fact: Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most successful medical procedures available today, with a success rate exceeding 95%. The procedure is quick (often under 30 minutes), virtually painless, and performed on an outpatient basis. Advanced technology allows for precise removal of the cataract and placement of a custom artificial lens, often restoring vision to near-perfect clarity.
Myth 6: Cataracts Will Grow Back After Surgery
Fact: Cataracts themselves cannot grow back once removed. However, some patients experience posterior capsular opacification (PCO), where the lens capsule holding the artificial lens becomes cloudy over time. This is easily resolved with a quick, painless laser procedure called YAG capsulotomy, restoring vision in minutes.
Myth 7: Overusing Your Eyes Can Cause Cataracts
Fact: Cataracts are not caused by how much or how little you use your eyes. They form due to changes in the natural lens of the eye, often due to aging, UV exposure, or other risk factors. Protecting your eyes from UV rays and maintaining good general health can help reduce your risk.
Myth 8: Cataracts Are Preventable
Fact: While you can’t completely prevent cataracts, you can reduce your risk by making lifestyle changes. Wearing sunglasses with 100% UV protection, eating a diet rich in antioxidants (like leafy greens, carrots, and citrus fruits), avoiding smoking, and managing chronic conditions like diabetes can all contribute to healthier eyes.
What to Expect from Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery has come a long way thanks to modern advancements. At Dr. Cronje’s Practice, we use state-of-the-art techniques to ensure a seamless experience. The procedure involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear artificial lens tailored to your needs. Most patients report significant improvements in vision, sometimes better than they’ve had in years.
Key Takeaways: Protect Your Vision
- Cataracts are common but treatable. The sooner they are detected, the easier it is to manage.
- Regular eye exams are essential, especially as you age or if you have risk factors like diabetes or prolonged UV exposure.
- Surgery is safe, effective, and life-changing for many people.
