According to Medical News Today, over 50% of Americans older than 80 have cataracts. Cataracts happen when the eye’s clear lens becomes cloudy, and as a result, you’ll have vision impairment.
While cataracts are commonly associated with aging, they typically develop slowly (over years). In some cases, they can appear rapidly, which means you have fast-growing cataracts.
If you’ve noticed cloudy vision in a matter of weeks or months, then you may have this type of cataract. It can quickly affect your quality of life in Southport, NC, so it’s good to know what causes it and what to do.
Keep reading to find out more about rapidly progressing cataracts in aging adults.
Causes of Fast-Growing Cataracts
Unfortunately, there isn’t just one simple cause of fast-growing cataracts (also known as mature cataracts). We’ll go over the main ones below so you’re informed:
- Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can affect the eye’s lens metabolism, which then accelerates cataract formation
- Trauma or injury: Trauma can cause the lens to cloud rapidly
- Certain medications: Long-term use is linked to faster cataract progression
- Radiation exposure: Radiation therapy to the head or eyes can be a cause
- Eye surgery or inflammation: Conditions like uveitis or prior surgeries can trigger faster growth
- Genetic factors: Some people are predisposed to more aggressive cataracts
Symptoms of Fast-Growing Cataracts
It may not always be easy to tell if you have a cataract, much less a fast-growing one. In addition, older adults deal with several other vision issues, so it can be difficult to pinpoint what you’re dealing with.
You should be on the lookout for these cataract warning signs:
- Sudden/quick decline in vision
- Cloudy/blurry vision that worsens rapidly
- Glare or halos around lights
- Difficulty seeing at night or in dim light
- Colors appearing faded or yellowed
- Double vision in one eye
- Frequent changes in your prescription
Risks of Untreated Fast-Growing Cataracts
You might think that a mature cataract is only a bother since it causes some vision issues. However, there are many associated risks if you let it go untreated.
For one, you’ll risk severe vision loss or even blindness. Needless to say, life can be very difficult afterward, as you’ll have a higher risk of fall-related injuries and will need more assistance getting around. You may also experience inflammation or pain.
Fast-growing cataracts can also cause increased intraocular pressure. This can lead to glaucoma.
There are social, emotional, and mental drawbacks, too. Since you can’t see as well, you may go through social withdrawal and reduced independence, both of which can have a huge impact on your mental health.
When to See an Eye Doctor
The above information might alarm you, but as long as you’re proactive about eye health in seniors, you should be fine.
Should you notice any vision changes in assisted living (or any other setting), you’ll want to make notes. You should see an ophthalmologist if:
- Your vision worsens noticeably within weeks or months
- You notice glare sensitivity or double vision
- Your glasses stop improving your sight
These are also signs of other eye issues, so it may not necessarily be cataracts causing them. An eye doctor can conduct a dilated eye exam to confirm if you have a cataract and, therefore, rule out other causes of vision loss.
Treatment Options
After confirmation of fast-growing cataracts, your eye doctor will most likely suggest cataract surgery, as it’s the only effective treatment. There are two types of surgery available.
The first is phacoemulsification (phaco), which is the most commonly used method. The surgeon uses ultrasound to break up the lens.
The other method is laser-assisted surgery. There’s more precision, but it may be more expensive.
Either way, your natural lens is replaced with an artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL).
Time is of the essence, as there are more complications the longer you wait. Your cataract can also develop into a “hyper-mature cataract,” and removal will be much more difficult and risky.
What to Expect After Surgery
Typically, you’ll need one to two weeks for the initial healing process. Then, you’ll see full vision improvement in four to six weeks.
While you’re in recovery, make sure you follow all your surgeon’s instructions. They include:
- Using prescribed eye drops
- Protecting the eye from dust or injury
- Avoiding heavy lifting
Once you’re done healing, you should expect to regain excellent vision, especially if you don’t have other eye diseases.
How You Can Reduce Cataract Risk or Progression
Finding out you have cataracts isn’t pleasant, and neither is going through surgery. Thankfully, there are ways you can reduce your risk of cataracts or their progression.
First of all, manage your chronic illnesses. For instance, diabetic eye conditions can speed up cataract growth.
Also, eat an eye-healthy diet. It should be rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, E, lutein, and zeaxanthin. Stay away from junk food and items with empty calories, as those aren’t good for your health anyway.
You should also quit smoking, as that will accelerate cataract formation. And when you’re outside, wear UV-protective sunglasses to shield your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays.
Lastly, it’s essential that you have regular eye exams. In general, you should have one a year after you turn 60. This can help you catch ocular issues while they’re minor, even if they’re not cataracts.
If you need any support with eye health, you can reach out to the staff if you’re in a senior living community. Otherwise, there are vision rehabilitation services for low vision support.
Be on the Lookout for Fast-Growing Cataracts
If you notice signs of fast-growing cataracts, it’s important that you take quick action. Without a diagnosis and surgery, you can end up with vision loss and blindness.
Those who currently don’t have cataracts can keep up their eye health by eating a healthy diet, quitting smoking, managing chronic conditions, and wearing UV-protective sunglasses. And regardless of your current health, it’s essential to schedule regular eye exams. These proactive actions can allow you to preserve your vision and live a fulfilling life.
TerraBella Southport has senior-specific wellness classes to keep our residents healthy and engaged. Get in touch with us now to discuss senior living in Southport, NC.