Cataracts are cloudy areas that form in the lens of the eye and can cause blurry vision, faded colors, and increased sensitivity to glare. It can also impair vision.

And even though cataracts usually develop slowly and don’t cause pain, they can significantly impact daily activities like driving or reading. The good news is that with regular eye exams, you stand the best chance of detecting cataracts early.

And as you probably understand, timely treatment allows for improved vision and quality of life. Follow this link to learn more: https://www.drchelvinsng.com/dr-chelvin-sng-can-you-get-early-onset-cataracts-in-your-20s/.

On this page, we answer the question; is cataract life-threatening? We also explain what may happen if you do not treat cataracts. Keep reading.

So, Is Cataract Life Threatening?

Cataracts in Singapore is one of the most common conditions of the eye that we help manage on a daily basis. As is the case with any other condition, the news of being diagnosed with cataracts may hit hard thus the age-old question; Are cataracts life-threatening?

The simple answer is no, cataract isn’t life-threatening and having it will in no way affect your overall health. Here’s the twist though; cataracts can continually get worse and develop into hyper-mature cataracts.

Hyper-mature cataracts cannot only cause inflammation. It can also cause pressure on your eye and lead to the development of glaucoma.

Now, glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve. This damage is often due to high pressure in the eye and it can lead to vision loss and blindness if left untreated.

It is also important to note that glaucoma usually develops slowly and without symptoms. This explains why it’s often called the “silent thief of sight.” As it progresses, your peripheral vision may be affected first.

This would eventually lead to tunnel vision and blindness. The damage caused by glaucoma is irreversible so early detection and treatment is crucial if you’re keen on preserving your vision.

What is the Best Cure for Cataracts?

The best way to manage cataracts and prevent your vision from deteriorating is simply to treat it. So you may wonder, what is the best cure for cataracts?

The best cure for cataracts is cataract surgery. During the procedure, an ophthalmologist will carefully remove the cloudy lens and then have it replaced with an artificial lens to restore your clear vision.

Usually, surgery is recommended when cataracts have significantly impaired your daily activities and quality of life. It is actually preferred as it offers a permanent solution to vision loss caused by cataracts.

Since surgery is mostly reserved for advanced cases of cataracts, you do not really have to worry much about it. If your cataracts aren’t too advanced, you may benefit from;

• Home treatment: You may be recommended small changes at home or work to help manage your cataracts. For example, to improve vision quality, you may want to start using brighter lights, wearing anti-glare sunglasses, and using magnifying lenses for reading.
• New glasses or contacts: A new prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses may also be recommended to improve your vision clarity. These may be particularly helpful for the early stages of cataracts.

As a general rule, please discuss these options with an eye care professional to be sure. In many cases, surgery may not be immediately necessary. Also, waiting usually does not harm the eyes or make surgery more challenging later on.

Is Cataract Surgery Painful?

Thinking about what a cataract surgery involves, it may sound quite complicated. So, it isn’t really strange that many people frequently ask; is cataract surgery painful?

Now, cataract surgery is typically not even painful. Before the procedure, you will receive a topical anesthetic (eye drops) to numb the eye during the procedure. After surgery, you may experience slight discomfort like a gritty feeling.

This discomfort is quite mild and easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Generally, cataract surgeries are safe and well-tolerated procedures. For the best treatment outcomes, here is a quick summary of what to keep in mind before your surgery for cataracts in Singapore;

· Stop Taking Aspirin or Anti-Clotting Drugs

Cataract surgery involves delicate procedures on the eye. Due to how the procedure is done, minimal bleeding can occur.

To minimize your risks of bleeding, your ophthalmologist may recommend discontinuing aspirin or other anti-clotting medications before surgery. If you’re on such medications, don’t just discontinue them if you think that you may have surgery for cataracts in Singapore. As a general rule, always consult with your prescribing doctor before altering your medication regimen.

· Avoid Wearing Contact Lenses

Contact lenses can increase the risk of eye irritation. Eye irritation may not only affect your cataract surgery. It may also delay the procedure and your recovery as well.

So, it would be best to switch to glasses at least three days before your scheduled procedure to reduce this risk. Switching to glasses can also help you ensure optimal surgical conditions.

· Skip Makeup and Facial Products

On the day of your surgery, avoid using makeup. Also, skip facial lotions, creams, or aftershave. These products can increase the risk of infection or interfere with the surgical process.

Instead of these products, simply wash your face with a gentle soap and water before heading to the hospital or clinic. If you’re using a product you’re not sure about, please share it with your ophthalmologist for clarity.

· Follow Fasting Guidelines

Typically, you’ll be asked to fast for at least 12 hours before your cataract surgery. Also, you will be advised to refrain from consuming alcoholic beverages.

These can run the gamut from wine to liquor, or beer. Avoid these drinks for at least 24 hours before your surgery to ensure that you’re in the best possible condition for the procedure.

Wrapping Up

Cataracts isn’t life-threatening. However, poorly managed or ignored cataracts can massively interfere with your vision. So, if diagnosed with cataracts in Singapore, seek treatments on time or as directed.

Are you worried about cataracts in Singapore? Why not visit our clinic for a complete assessment and to have all your concerns addressed? Call or visit us at;

Chelvin Sng Eye Centre – Glaucoma | Cataract Surgery | Retina Specialist | Ophthalmologist Singapore

38 Irrawaddy Road Mt Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre,

#06-25,

Singapore 329563

+65 6334 2282

https://www.drchelvinsng.com/