Health encyclopaedia

Health encyclopaedia - Alphabetical Topic List

Diagnosis of Cataracts

It can be difficult to tell that a cataract is developing. Many people assume (often correctly) that worsening sight is part of getting older, and that they can’t do anything about it. Some cataracts develop on the outer edge of the lens and therefore do not affect your vision straightaway.

Cataracts can be identified by an optician, which is why regular sight tests are important, particularly over the age of 40. Cataracts can usually be found during a routine eye check up; make sure you tell the optician about any symptoms you have had.

The optician will examine your eye using a special microscope with a light on the end called an ophthalmoscope. The optician will identify the opaque areas of the lens (the parts affected by the cataract), and assess how clearly you can see.

During the examination, your eye may be measured for an artificial lens. If is necessary, this will be put into your eye during cataract surgery (see treatment section).

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