Fast-Growing Cataracts in Seniors: What to Know

A scientific study published in JAMA Ophthalmology found that over 25% of Americans older than 71 had vision impairment in 2021. One of the biggest problems they struggle with is cataracts, which is cloudiness in the eye’s lens (it’s usually clear).

It’s common for older adults to develop cataracts, but that doesn’t mean that they’re easy to deal with. In addition, they usually develop slowly over several years, but in some situations, seniors can get fast-growing cataracts instead.

Those who have experienced cloudy vision within a few weeks or months may have this health issue. If this sounds like you, then read on. We’ll give you more information and what you can do in Hillsborough, NC.

What Causes Fast-Growing Cataracts?

Fast-growing cataracts are also known as mature cataracts or rapidly progressing cataracts. They can result from a number of things, mainly:

• Diabetes: High blood sugar can promote cataract formation since lens metabolism is altered
• Trauma or injury: The lens can cloud quickly with outside forces
• Medications: Some medications can speed cataract growth with long-term use
• Radiation exposure: Those who receive radiation therapy may experience faster cataract growth
• Eye surgery or inflammation: Uveitis and prior surgeries may contribute to fast-growing cataracts

The above contribute to faster cataract growth. In addition, some people are genetically predisposed to having more aggressive cataract growth.

Fast-Growing Cataract Symptoms in Aging

Normally, cataracts can be hard to detect since they take years to develop. But even fast-growing cataracts can go undetected, especially if you’re not aware of their symptoms.

These are the warning signs:

• Having a fast decline in vision
• Having cloudy or blurry vision that quickly becomes worse
• Seeing glare or halos around lights
• Having trouble seeing at night or in low-light conditions
• Seeing colors that are faded or yellowed
• Having double vision in only one eye
• Experiencing frequent changes in your prescription glasses

What Happens if You Don’t Treat Fast-Growing Cataracts?

Fast-growing cataracts will cause a rapid decline in your visual acuity, and that itself is annoying and troublesome. But there are some serious consequences if you don’t seek treatment.

For example, since you can’t see as well, you’ll have a much higher risk of falling or injuring yourself. There’s a good chance that you’ll need outside help to get around, too.

The condition can cause inflammation or pain, and eventually, it can lead to severe vision loss or blindness.

Another problem is that you may develop glaucoma, which is due to the cataracts causing higher intraocular pressure. And since the cataracts obscure the retina, it can make it more difficult to detect conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration.

Not only are there physical consequences, but also social and mental ones. Reduced vision means more social isolation and even cognitive decline. As a result, you may experience depression and anxiety.

When Should You See an Eye Doctor for Fast-Growing Cataracts?

You may be hesitant to go to the doctor since your issues may not seem very serious. But the key to cataracts is proactiveness, so be vigilant.

You should make an appointment with your ophthalmologist if you:

• Have glare sensitivity
• Get double vision
• Experience a sharp decline in your vision within weeks or months
• Need new glasses shortly after getting them

Do note that these signs can result from other eye conditions, so don’t panic just yet. Your healthcare provider can perform a dilated eye exam to determine the root cause of your vision issues. If you’re struggling to make these appointments yourself, then turn to assisted living health support for assistance.

Cataract Surgery

Has your ophthalmologist finished the exam and they’ve diagnosed you with fast-growing cataracts? Then they’ll likely recommend cataract surgery since it’s the only effective treatment.

In most cases, you’ll have phacoemulsification (phaco). This is the use of ultrasound to break up the eye’s lens. The other choice is laser-assisted surgery; it’s more precise, but it’s also more expensive.

Whichever method your eye doctor chooses, they’ll replace your natural lens with an artificial one called an intraocular lens (IOL).

Do note that the longer you wait, the higher the chances of complications, as your cataract can develop into a hyper-mature one.

After the surgery, it’ll take one to two weeks for initial healing and four to six weeks for full recovery. You should always follow your doctor’s advice, such as using prescribed eye drops, protecting your eyes, and avoiding heavy lifting.

If all goes well, then you should regain your vision. You have a higher chance of this happening if you have no other eye disease.

Managing Cataracts

Surgery is always a last option, which means that prevention is key.

If you’re a smoker, then you should quit. Not only is it terrible for your health, but it can also cause cataracts to grow faster.

In addition, you need to stick to a healthy diet. The following can help with eye health:

• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E
• Lutein
• Zeaxanthin

You may already know this, but we have to reiterate that you should avoid eating foods with empty calories and no nutrition.

When you’re outside, always wear UV-protective sunglasses. Not only can the sun’s rays accelerate cataract progression, but they can also increase your risk for other eye conditions.

Lastly, stay on top of your chronic illnesses. Conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure can contribute to cataract formation.

Even if you already have cataracts, you should still follow the above vision care tips. They can help you slow the progression of cataracts.

Be Proactive About Senior Eye Health

Fast-growing cataracts can have a significant and sudden impact on your independence and quality of life. They may be shocking to have, but if you’re vigilant for early signs, and you receive a prompt diagnosis and treatment, then you’ll be able to eliminate this vision threat quickly.

Both before and after, you should also practice proactive eye care. This can keep not only cataracts at bay, but also other troublesome eye conditions. As a result, you’ll maintain good vision and overall well-being.

TerraBella Hillsborough has been named Best Memory Care Community by the US News & World Report. To hear more about Hillsborough senior living, contact us now.