If your vision has gotten cloudy, there's a good chance that you have developed cataracts. To make sure, you need to schedule an eye exam as soon as possible. If you get diagnosed with cataracts, don't wait for treatment. Without the proper treatment, your vision will continue to deteriorate. If you do have cataracts, it's a good idea to learn as much as you can about the condition. Here are four things you might not know about cataracts. 

Cataracts Won't Go Away On Their Own

If you have cataracts, you might think that they'll go away on their own. Unfortunately, that's not the case. Once you have cataracts, the condition will continue to get worse. In some cases, cataracts can be treated with prescription lenses. But, in severe cases, cataract surgery is the only available treatment plan. During surgery, the cataract is carefully removed from the lens of the eye. If you do need surgery for cataract removal, choose a doctor who specialises in cataract surgery. 

Cataracts Aren't Always Age-Related

If you're like most people, you might think that cataracts are an age-related vision problem. That's not the case though. People of all ages can develop cataracts. In fact, there are some medical conditions that can cause cataracts. Some of those conditions include diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity. Smoking can also increase your risk of developing cataracts at an early age. If you do suffer from any of those conditions, you should have your eyes checked for cataracts on a regular basis. 

Cataract Surgery Is Not Painful

If you need cataract surgery, you might be concerned about the pain. Luckily, you don't need to be worried. Cataract surgery is a painless procedure. In fact, you'll be awake for the surgery. In most cases, your doctor will give you a mild sedative to calm any anxiety you might experience. Then your eyes will be numbed using special eye drops. 

Cataracts Can Come Back

If you're scheduled for cataract removal surgery, you'll need to take good care of your eyes. Without proper care, cataracts could return. If that happens, you'll need to undergo another cataract surgery. You can reduce the risk by wearing sunglasses when you go outside and by seeing your eye doctor for routine exams. If you smoke, it's a good idea to participate in a smoking cessation program. That way, you protect your eyes against future cataract formation. 

For more information about cataract surgery, contact a local doctor. 

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