How To Delay The Progression Of Cataracts
Patients often ask whether there is a way of delaying cataracts since they may have a family member who has it. Laser eye surgery doctors in Los Angeles tell us that cataracts are the leading cause of blindness in the United States. Unfortunately, there is no guaranteed way to prevent them, but making some lifestyle changes could reduce your risk of getting them.
How Do Cataracts Happen?
The doctor at Excel Laser Vision Institute, a LASIK eye center in Los Angeles, points out that the real reason why medical professionals can’t find a way to delay cataracts is that it is more complicated than keeping a clear lens from becoming cloudy. So, the whole point isn’t about keeping the lens clear but more about how to stop it from aging. For now, scientists haven’t found a way to delay aging. However, they have a good idea of what causes it biochemically. And the same can be said for cataracts.
Every year, the lens in your eye lays down new layers, kind of like how a tree lays down new rings each year. Over time, the center of the lens gets more compressed, and it results in hardening and cloudiness. There is a type of biochemical bond referred to as a disulfide bond, and it occurs between the cysteine amino acids of the crystalline proteins in the eye. LASIK eye surgeons in Los Angeles confirm that there is no way to stop it or delay it.
How Do You Prevent Cataracts From Getting Worse?
Nevertheless, Doctor Moosa, a LASIK surgeon in Los Angeles, gives us five ways to prevent cataracts or keep them from getting worse. These methods are not difficult to incorporate into a healthy lifestyle, but they can possibly prevent you from becoming blind.
Stay Away From Lengthy Exposure To UV Light
Although a small amount of exposure to the sun is healthy, prolonged exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays can intensify cataract progression.
This doesn’t mean you have to lock yourself indoors most of the time. It is okay to go out as long as you protect yourself from the dangers of prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light.
When the sun is out, and you want to be outside, make it a point to wear sunglasses. As mentioned above, lowering the amount of ultraviolet light that reaches your eyes will help you prevent getting cataracts.
Also, don’t be fooled when there is a cloudy day since the sun’s rays can pass through thin clouds. The peak hours of the day for sun exposure are between 10 am, and 3 pm or else 11 am and 4 pm daylight savings time.
Don’t Use Steroid Drops
Sometimes ophthalmologists will prescribe steroid eye drops to treat dry eyes and arthritic flare-ups in the eyes. These steroids imitate the effects of cortisol in the body to lower inflammation.
Although steroid eye drops are useful when administered properly, they can have damaging side effects, which consist of the acceleration of cataracts.
If you do have to use steroid eye drops on a regular basis, you should have regular eye exams carried out. If you notice cataracts developing, speak to your optometrist or ophthalmologist as soon as possible.
Look Out For Medicinal Side Effects
Commonly prescribed medications have side effects that could trigger the cataract progress. If you are at risk for cataracts and take medication on a regular basis, ask your medical professional about any side effects you have to be aware of.
If you are taking necessary medication that could speed up cataracts, it is crucial that you avoid sunlight during peak hours, wear sunglasses or a hat during sunny days, and have regular eye exams.
Taking medication to enhance your life may not be worthwhile if it results in cataracts. So, think about your options carefully.
Think About Cataract Surgery
When cataracts have already set or progressed to a point where it disrupts many aspects of your life, you should think about having cataracts removed.
You can only remove it through cataract surgery, a process that involves removing your eye’s natural cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial lens. One of the leading eye surgeons at Excel Eye Institute will discuss and advise you of the options for corrective lenses that are appropriate for you.
This is the best way to treat cataracts that have already set in, but it may not be the best solution for everyone. Make sure to contact your laser eye clinic to figure out if cataract surgery is the right option for you.
Live A Healthy Lifestyle
Research has shown that a healthy lifestyle can lead to reducing the development of cataracts.
And this is a very logical finding since a healthy lifestyle helps to fight against many ailments. But, what exactly comprises a “healthy lifestyle”?
Here are a few suggestions from existing studies:
Diet Guidelines
- People who have a diet that consists of colorful fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may show a reduced possibility of developing cataracts.
- Studies suggest that antioxidant vitamins in these fruits and vegetables may lower the risk of cataracts.
- Carrots are a great source of beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body and is excellent for eye health.
- The consumption of fish has been linked to a reduced risk of cataracts.
- Fish are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been known to reduce cataract progression.
- A diet high in carbohydrates may speed up cataract progression.
- Foods that are rich in a variety of vitamins and minerals may delay cataracts.
Lifestyle Guidelines
- Dehydration can quicken the development of cataracts.
- Alcohol may accelerate the development of cataracts.
- Smoking will increase the chance of developing cataracts.
- Obesity may increase the chances of developing cataracts.
- Individuals with diabetes may be at a higher risk of developing cataracts.
Many people over the age of 50 will eventually develop age-related changes in their lenses, known as “early cataracts.” It may be challenging to prevent cataracts from progressing entirely, but you could live cataract-free by taking account of these guidelines.
How to Better Care For Your Eyes: From Lifestyle Changes to Cataract Surgery
It’s easy to take our eyes for granted. Every day of our lives we rely on our vision, from the most baseline activities to our passions and work. Very often, people forget how important this is until some part of their eyesight is compromised. Fortunately, technology can help us out when this happens. Procedures like LASIK and cataract surgery in Los Angeles allow people to regain clarity of sight and move forward with their lives.
Since our eyes contribute so much to our quality of life, we have to maintain ocular health in order to maintain ocular function. This is true for almost anyone, regardless of measured visual acuity. Those looking into laser vision correction in Los Angeles need healthy eyes just as much as people who have never worn a corrective lens in their life. Here are some of the ways that we can take better care of our eyes:
Eating a well-balanced diet
Diet affects nearly every aspect of our health, including our eyes. There are certain foods that will promote healthy eyes such as green leafy vegetables and yellow vegetables. Fruits that are high in vitamin C can contribute to healthy blood vessels and combat cataracts. Omega 3 fatty acids have been shown to improve eye pressure and reduce the risk of glaucoma. These can be found in halibut, salmon, and tuna.
Getting enough exercise
According to corrective eye surgery experts, exercise can play a large role in eye health as well. Many people don’t realize that conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes can often lead to chronic eye issues that damage vision. In order to lower your risk of developing these problems, it is imperative that you follow regular health-conscious practices according to your personal needs.
Protecting your eyes from the sun
Many patients who receive cataract surgery in Los Angeles have been told that UVA and UVB protection is the key to preventing cataract development. While spending time outside is great for most people’s health, it is important to limit sun exposure to the eyes. Other eye conditions that can develop as a result of harmful sun rays are corneal growths, keratitis, and age-related macular degeneration.
Filtering blue light
In this digital age that we live in, it’s hard to get away from screens. We are constantly on our phones, tablets, and computers. Then, when we get home, we watch TV. Unfortunately, these screens emit a high energy blue light that can damage eyes over time. The best way to offset this exposure is to take supplements like zeaxanthin and lutein. You can also take frequent breaks to look at something off the screen and blink more often.
Practicing good ocular hygiene
There are certain things that we do without thinking and one of those is touching our eyes. Whether we feel an itch or we are adjusting our contacts, it’s easy to reach up and rub around the area without thinking. However, our eyes are very sensitive and require the utmost care at all times. In order to protect your eyes from any irritants, it is important to always wash your hands before making contact with them and never use rough motions.
Getting laser eye surgery
It’s important to understand our limitations when it comes to eyesight. If you are someone who has worn contacts and glasses all your life or most of your life, then you know that having a refractive error can affect your day to day life. Fortunately, advancements in technology and ocular knowledge have allowed us access to procedures like LASIK. This vision correction alternative is a long-term solution that often eliminates the need for contacts or glasses entirely. For people with contact lens intolerance or who often suffer from fogged up glasses, this is life-changing. Contact a LASIK clinic near you to schedule a consultation with a surgeon. You can ask them questions like, “How much does LASIK cost?” and “How long does LASIK last?” They will walk you through every aspect of the procedure and determine whether or not you qualify for this form of vision correction.
How To Maintain Strong Vision After Cataract Surgery
Usually, the first thing that happens to people after getting cataract surgery is that they feel relieved. With cataracts gone, their vision is restored and they can see incredibly well. However, this feeling of relief is often followed by a desire to keep their visual acuity at this level. During this time, people are motivated to do what it takes in order to keep their vision strong, including eating well, exercising, eliminating any tobacco, wearing UV protection, and monitoring other health conditions.
Cataract surgery can significantly improve a person’s vision by replacing a clouded lens with a clear, artificial one. This new lens can help light rays better reach the retina and, therefore, achieve clarity of vision. This corrective eye surgery is common for people that are prone to age related macular degeneration. According to eye care experts, macular degeneration can be triggered by cumulative oxidative stress to the macula, which is in the center of the retina. In order to prevent age related macular degeneration from backtracking the success of cataract surgery, a patient must focus on their macula health.
The very center of the macula, known as the fovea, is responsible for five degrees of vision as well as facial recognition and reading. The fovea also holds three macular pigments ( meso-zeaxanthin, zeaxanthin, and lutein) which work to filter short-wavelength blue light and have antioxidant properties. The denser the macular pigment, the more capable it is of protecting retina cells from oxidative stress and harmful blue light. This contributes to overall better quality of vision, especially in low light situations.
The best way to reduce your risk of getting age related macular degeneration is to treat your body with the right nutrients and supplements. You can find zeaxanthin and lutein in foods like corn, carrots, leafy vegetables, and citrus fruits. According to laser vision correction experts in Los Angeles like Doctor Moosa, meso-zeaxanthin is harder to find in a Western diet and, therefore many people are deficient in this macular pigment. Fortunately, there are many natural, food-based supplements that one can take to increase their meso-zeaxanthin. This can improve visual functions and contrast sensitivity.
Visual deterioration is a common symptom of age. This is why so many people face conditions like cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma, presbyopia, temporal arteritis, and dry eye. However, many people are able to restore their vision through healthy habits and corrective procedures. Eye care experts recommend taking dietary supplements to protect against oxidative damage and getting cataract surgery to replace cloudy natural lenses. As long as people stay on top of their eye health, they will be able to prevent more serious conditions from affecting their vision. One of the easiest ways to maintain eye health is to schedule yearly check-ups and share any occurring symptoms that you may have noticed with your doctor.
Once achieving clarity of vision, people are more equipped to go about their daily lives, chase their passions, and improve their overall quality of life. In order to determine if you qualify for cataract surgery or any other vision corrective procedure, visit an eye care clinic like Excel Laser Vision Institute in Los Angeles and schedule a comprehensive exam.
How to Know if You Need Cataract Surgery
According to eye care experts in Los Angeles, cataract surgery is a procedure that involves replacing the eye’s natural cloudy lens with a clear synthetic lens. This can be performed by experienced surgeons on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia. Many cataract surgery patients can return to their normal routines within a few days. Fortunately, advancement in technology has allowed this procedure’s success rate to skyrocket and the results are long-lasting. Eye care professionals highly recommend the procedure for people who are suffering from cataracts. However, patients must make a couple of decisions when beginning their journey, including what type of lens implant they want and when they want to have the surgery.
Many people develop eyesight problems over time, which is why laser vision correction procedures have gained popularity in recent decades. Whether its myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism, LASIK has a reputation of restoring crystal clear vision to many different kinds of patients. However, cataracts are outside the realm of this corrective eye surgery and require an alternative solution. Instead of manipulating the surface of the cornea in order to allow light to better focus, cataracts are treated by replacing the eye lens completely.
As we age, our eye lenses naturally become thicker and less transparent. This can lead to cloudiness of the lens, which we know as cataracts. According to recent studies, about 50% of people will develop cataracts by the time they reach 80 years old. In many cases, cataracts develop in a slow, subtle manner. Someone may at first experience more nearsightedness and then poor night vision as well as dulled color perception. These symptoms can be evaluated by an eye doctor in order to determine if cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, or any other eye conditions are the root cause.
The only effective cure for cataracts is the removal of the clouded lens through cataract surgery. Los Angeles eye doctors say that, in most cases, the procedure is recommended based on how much the cataracts are interfering with someone’s daily life. In the early stages of cataract development, vision may not be significantly impaired. However, cataracts are known to exacerbate other eye conditions like macular degeneration. The best course of action is to have a comprehensive eye exam with a professional in order to determine whether it is the right time for the procedure.
When choosing the synthetic lens implant for cataract surgery, one must speak to an eye care professional in order to hear their recommendations. Monofocal versus multifocal lenses provide different benefits, depending on the patient’s age and lifestyle. Younger cataract surgery patients often choose monofocal implants while multifocal lenses provide relief for patients with detail-oriented jobs and hobbies. The key is choosing the lens that will best satisfy your vision needs in your individual circumstances.
Frequent eye exams are the best way to ensure that your eyesight is monitored and preserved. Whether you need cataract surgery, LASIK eye surgery, or some other corrective procedure, experienced ophthalmologists can help you reach your vision goals.
Cataract Versus LASIK Surgery
While many people have heard of LASIK and cataract surgery, there seems to be a general confusion about whether or not these two procedures can work together to achieve vision goals. Some of the confusion stems from the fact that many Los Angeles clinics offer both cataract surgery and LASIK. Many eye care patients find themselves asking how these two methods of vision correction are different from one another and if they can be utilized in tandem for certain individuals. Fortunately, the answers are rather straightforward and simply require the expertise of an eye care professional.
How is cataract surgery different from LASIK?
LASIK eye surgery involves the reshaping of an individual’s cornea to help refocus light properly, thus correcting a previous refractive error. Cataract surgery, on the other hand, is a treatment that involves the replacement of an individual’s natural lens, which has become clouded with cataracts, with an artificial lens (IOL or intraocular lens).
Each surgery is performed within a different timeframe. LASIK is usually a bit quicker and both eyes can be completed in the same surgery. Cataract surgery usually requires a separate day for each eye. Another difference between the two procedures is that cataract surgery can be covered by insurance (unless choosing premium add-ons) while LASIK offers a flexible savings account (FSA) but no insurance coverage.
How is cataract surgery similar to LASIK?
In the most basic sense, both LASIK and cataract surgery are a form of corrective eye surgery that require laser technology. Cataract surgery utilizes the femtosecond laser to extract the natural lens of the eye and bladeless LASIK utilizes the femtosecond laser for the creation of the corneal flap.
Each procedure seeks to improve a patient’s vision and offers a very quick recovery time. Patients who receive LASIK or cataract surgery at a Los Angeles clinic such as Excel Laser Vision Institute are typically given local anesthesia and both surgeries can be performed while patients are awake.
Can you get cataract surgery and LASIK surgery on the same eye?
The short answer is yes. Both procedures focus on different areas of the eye (the cornea for LASIK and the lens for cataract surgery) which is why this combination would not likely pose any interference. However, this answer may differ depending on a person’s specific eye condition and the recommendations of their surgeon. The best way to find out if you’re eligible for cataract surgery after receiving LASIK (or vice versa) would be to ask an eye specialist at a laser vision correction clinic in Los Angeles like Excel Laser Vision Institute.
Can cataract surgery and LASIK be used in tandem?
The answer to this is sometimes. In circumstances where an individual’s natural lens is replaced, but their visual acuity is still not at the right level, a surgeon may recommend a version of LASIK for a full correction. Usually, instead of using traditional LASIK methods, an eye specialist will perform an alternative refractive surgery called PRK.
Final Thoughts
Cataract surgery and LASIK are both vision correction methods that offer incredible benefits to certain individuals. If you would like to see if you’re eligible for either of these procedures, then you can visit the Excel Laser Vision Insitute for a full eye exam and consultation with a laser eye specialist.
Improving Motorcycling Safety with Cataract Surgery in Los Angeles
There’s no taking chances when it comes to your vision – especially not on a motorcycle. Having clear eyesight and strong peripheral vision is not only essential for motorcyclists but also for other drivers and pedestrians they encounter on the road. If you’re a rider with poor vision, LASIK and cataract surgery in Los Angeles are excellent options to improve both safety and performance.
5 Benefits of LASIK for Motorcyclists
Clear vision doesn’t just allow you to enjoy the ride; it’s a critical road survival tool. To compensate for vision problems, many riders wear eyeglasses or contacts, but the most effective, long-term solution is laser eye surgery in Los Angeles. Here are five major benefits:
- Enhances peripheral vision
Peripheral vision allows you to see what’s happening outside your direct line of sight without turning your head. It’s linked to balance, reaction speed, movement, and reduced mental fatigue in drivers. Good peripheral vision informs motorcyclists of vehicles to the sides, obstacles like oil spills or potholes, and other road conditions.
Wearing eyeglasses simply helps you see what’s in front of you, but they don’t cover your vision to the side. In contrast, laser eye surgery effectively corrects peripheral vision, so you’re always completely aware of your surroundings while staying focused on the road ahead.
- Improves night driving
Eyesight problems like astigmatism can make lights look hazy, distorted, or elongated while riding at nights. Other issues like farsightedness and myopia can create halos, glare, and reflections that make night driving dangerous. Laser eye surgery in Los Angeles has more than a 95% success rate when it comes to these vision problems, allowing you to see clearly when driving your motorcycle in low lighting conditions.
- Helps riders identify visual cues
Riders with deteriorating vision often have to strain to see far away objects such as road signs, police cruisers, and other drivers. Failing to identify these cues can make it hard to slow down when you need to and lead to a missed exit or worse, a speeding ticket or something more serious. LASIK has proven to be one of the most effective ways to improve near-sightedness so you can see far ahead and respond appropriately to any driving situation.
- Eliminates the problem of moisture hampering your vision
Laser eye surgery also eliminates a unique problem for riders who wear glasses – moisture coating their lenses when it rains. It’s natural for water droplets to form on your helmet when driving through the rain, but when you wear glasses, it adds another layer of droplets that can severely hamper your field of vision. In most cases, LASIK removes the need to wear glasses altogether and cancels out this issue.
- Offers potential big savings
A lot of people hesitate to get LASIK surgery due to the upfront investment. Over the years, however, the amount you spend on broken eyeglasses, changing prescriptions, and the stress and hassle of dealing with eyewear will add up and cost you so much more in the long run.
Still on the fence regarding the financial investment of LASIK? The good news is that LASIK financing is now widely available, which means getting your eyesight fixed for good is now more affordable than ever.
Schedule a Consultation with a LASIK Surgeon in LA
Excel Laser Vision Institute provides safe and effective vision correction in Los Angeles, Orange County, and surrounding areas in California. Talk to our trusted LASIK surgeons in Los Angeles today to determine if you’re a good candidate for this life-changing procedure.
Laser Eye Surgery in Los Angeles for Parents on the Go
Beginning in the early 40s, many adults start having difficulties with their eyesight. It becomes harder to read at close distances especially while reading or working on the computer. For parents, this is more than a minor inconvenience — laser eye surgery in Los Angeles can help you run the household more efficiently, protect the people you love, and enjoy your time together more. (more…)
Speeding Up Recovery After Laser or Cataract Surgery in Los Angeles
Much like cataract surgery in Los Angeles, laser eye surgery removes all anxiety about long, complicated recovery time. Come in for your appointment, sit down for a quick procedure, and enjoy perfect eyesight for many years! It’s that easy. (more…)
Get Cataract Surgery in Los Angeles and View the City Of Angels in All Its Beauty Again
It’s time to consider cataract surgery in Los Angeles for your senior relatives and help them see the world with fresh eyes. Let them see and enjoy LA anew — a city that is known for its fabulous beaches, rolling hills, nice weather, and star culture. With better eyesight, the elderlies will feel like tourists, gazing in awe at how LA is even more beautiful than when they last saw it, or even better than how they imagined it!
Enjoy Trips with Cataract-Free Eyes
As people grow older and cataracts start to develop, that’s when they realize the importance of vision, especially when they have the chance to tour as much as they want during retirement. But why do people get cataracts while aging?
Cataracts are a common vision impediment usually linked to aging. It is estimated that by the age of 80, more than half of all Americans either possess a cataract or have had eye surgery.
What are the different types of cataract?
Cataracts tend to form around retirement age. This could spoil retiree’s chances of traveling the world. Hence, you need to address it immediately.
Seniors are prone to three kinds of cataracts:
- Nuclear Cataract
This is the most common age-related cataract, brought about by the hardening and yellowing of the lens as time passes by. It forms in the lens’ central zone, and changes the eye’s ability to focus, creating a temporary close-up vision. Its progression is slow and may take years of development before affecting vision.
- Subscapular Cataract
This type of cataract occurs at the back of the lens. LASIK surgeons in Los Angeles say that this cataract can interfere with reading, making halo effects and glare around lights.
- Cortical Cataract
This cataract begins as white opacities in the lens’ periphery, moving inward. Changes in the lens’ water content make clefts or fissures, which appear as pointing to the center.
How soon will this eyesight problem affect us?
Eyesight varies per person, whether at night or during the day. Likewise, the occurrence of eye problems also varies depending on individuals’ pace. Experts warn that some cataracts can take place suddenly, while others may take place gradually.
LASIK Surgery for Seniors
You can still save your eyes from cataracts and continue sightseeing, thanks to the LASIK procedure. Contrary to popular belief, there is no age ceiling for LASIK! In fact, the Journal of Ophthalmology states that the safety and efficacy of LASIK procedures in patients over 70 years have gone up recent years, with the complication rate decreasing to 1%.
Thanks to new technology, LASIK eye surgery has become faster and more efficient. With the new VisuMax® laser system, operations can now be done quickly, gently, and precisely, giving your eyes a second shot at seeing the world again!
See LA and Other Tourist Spots Again
Reclaim your relative’s eyesight before it’s too late. Don’t miss out on the chance to show your parents the mansions of their favorite actors or the view from the Griffith Park Observatory.
Excel Laser Vision Institute is here to help you with your LASIK procedure. Our resident surgeon, Dr. Ferzaad Moosa, will thoroughly attend to your LASIK surgery just as he has for over 15 years.
Get in touch with us at our Contact Page, and see how the best laser eye surgery in Los Angeles will make your folks feel like tourists with their restored eyesight in no time!
Regaining Independence through Cataract Surgery in Los Angeles
lBy 2050, around 45 million Americans are predicted to develop cataracts. Today, there are already 25.7 million Americans suffering from this condition. Thankfully, cataract surgery in Los Angeles is now a highly-refined procedure, with an average of 98% success rate according to estimates from the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery.
While cataracts aren’t painful, they can have a grave effect on one’s independence and quality of life, especially for older people.
The Slow Burn of Cataracts
The thing about cataracts is that they tend to begin causing vision problems once they reach an advanced stage. It’s possible to develop cataracts as early as your 40s and 50s, but they’re still too small to have an impact on your vision. It’s usually after the age of 60 that serious vision problems begin to manifest.
The Consequences of Vision Loss for Older People
Unfortunately, studies have established a clear link between vision loss and lower quality of life. And when it comes to older people, it can have a very adverse effect on their independence.
- Loss of vision stemming from cataracts can hamper one’s ability to care for themselves or other people.
- It can prevent them from performing their jobs to the best of their abilities.
- Vision loss also affects more casual activities like hobbies, reading, and socializing.
Worse, impaired vision can make it harder for the elderly to accomplish basic, everyday self-care activities. This includes dressing, eating, and activities like managing one’s finances, driving, shopping, and taking medications correctly and on time.
Older people may also experience greater dependence on others when it comes to instrumental activities related to basic tasks, such as following recipes, reading medication labels, and looking over banking statements. All of these can damage the sense of independence that is so important to people of all ages, but more so for the elderly who prefer living alone or don’t want to rely on family members or caregivers for everything.
Vision impairment also increases the risk for falls and slips. Vision is the primary sense we use to navigate around 3D space, so mobility is significantly affected by its decline. Aside from hips and falls, the elderly may also be forced to walk at a slower gait even though they still have their agility.
Regaining Independence
The good news is that vision loss due to cataracts can be prevented easily. Our Lasik surgeons in Los Angeles can help afflicted individuals decide whether they’re a good candidate for cataract surgery, and once they’re deemed fit for the procedure, it can be performed with minimal disruption to one’s daily routine.
Getting older comes with own set of challenges, and developing cataracts may be unavoidable for some, but it doesn’t mean having to live with the condition and its consequences. Cataract surgery can help restore one’s vision, allowing you to regain your independence for many years to come.
Are you interested in cataract surgery, or looking into corrective surgery for nearsightedness, astigmatism, and other conditions? Say goodbye to your vision problems with the best laser eye surgery in Los Angeles at the Excel Laser Vision Institute.