cataract-treatment-are-there-non-surgical-methods-to-reverse-the-disease

The Cataract Is Out Of The Bag

The eye is essential for capturing the world and sending those images to the brain. Light entering the eye passes through a lens designed to make images crisp and clear. Cataracts affect the lens, causing the tissue to break down and lose the ability to function.

There’s no end in sight

As the condition consumes the lens, images typically begin to appear cloudy. Often unnoticeable at onset, cataracts continue to deteriorate vision until nothing is left. The disease is usually age-related but can also come about due to injury or trauma to the face. Cataracts affect individuals differently and can take anywhere from a few months to several years to develop.

Whether fast or slow, worsening cataracts reduce the quality of sight over time. In addition, colors often appear muted and grayscale. Patients may also experience haloes around lights or a sensitivity that wasn’t there before. Occasionally, the disease can even cause double vision. If untreated, the ailment can eventually lead to blindness in the affected eye.

Reverse the curse without surgery?

At this time, there are no non-surgical methods to remove cataracts from the eye. Contrary to what some medications may say, none have been proven effective in reversing cataract growth. While research studies attempt to locate a viable alternative solution, the only way to eliminate the disease is through surgery.

Surgery isn’t a bad thing

Modern cataract surgery has existed for several decades and is a very low-risk approach to reversing the disease. The procedure has a success rate upwards of 99%, restoring sight lost from the thickest of cataracts. An estimated 4 million cataract removals happened in 2021, averaging only 30 minutes from start to finish.

Slow down there, cataract

The following habits may play a pivotal role in slowing the effects of the disease:

  • Wearing sunglasses when outdoors to protect the eye from dust, pollutants, and the sun’s UV light
  • Ceasing smoking, alcohol consumption, or any form of substance abuse
  • Eating a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables known to be rich in vitamins and antioxidants
  • Keeping other bodily issues under control, such as blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity
  • Avoiding steroid eye drops or other medications that can cause cataracts if possible

While there aren’t other methods for reversing cataracts at present, making smart health choices can reduce the likelihood of cataracts.

It’s best to stay regular

Above all else, regular eye exams offer the ophthalmologist the opportunity to check for signs of cataracts or other diseases. Early detection allows the physician to put together a treatment plan to ensure the eye is as healthy as possible. When the time comes, the eye doctor can address cataract surgery before vision deteriorates too far.