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You’ve noticed your vision becoming blurry for some time now. After talking to your primary care physician, you’ve discovered that it could be two options: cataracts or glaucoma.
A thorough evaluation with an ophthalmologist is the best way to find out which condition is affecting your eyesight, but these quick facts should help you along the way.
A cataract is a cloudiness that forms in the lens of your eye, obstructing your vision over time. Cataracts develop when the proteins in the eye break down and accumulate over time.
By contrast, glaucoma is characterized by high pressure in the eye that damages the optic nerve. Unlike cataracts, this condition does not affect the lens.
Both cataracts and glaucoma cause blurry vision, but there are key differences that distinguish the two conditions. Cataracts may also show symptoms like:
Glaucoma presents with these additional symptoms:
While cataract symptoms may show over time, glaucoma can occur with no symptoms before vision loss occurs. As Dr. Pedro Cervantes, a CEENTA glaucoma and cataract surgeon, explains, “Glaucoma has been called the ‘silent vision killer’ because of that reason. That’s why it’s important to have your eyes examined if you have a family history of the condition.”
Cataracts can surgically be removed from the eye lens, which results in a new artificial lens being inserted. Depending on your vision needs, your surgeon may recommend a premium lens that can improve your vision without the need for glasses and correct any astigmatism you may have.
Glaucoma is irreversible, but eye pressure affecting your optic nerve can be managed with eye drops. Your surgical options may include minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) or tube shunts, both of which can be performed with cataract surgery if you have simultaneous conditions.
Need a cataract surgeon, glaucoma specialist, or both? CEENTA’s eye care team includes fellowship-trained surgeons who can diagnose and treat both conditions, leaving you with clear vision no matter the cause.
Schedule your cataract or glaucoma consultation with Dr. Cervantes at CEENTA SouthPark, Fort Mill, or Steele Creek online to get started.
This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your doctor.
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