Glaucoma vs. Cataracts

While glaucoma and cataracts are eye conditions that can result in eventual blindness and most commonly develop after the age of 40, each is quite different from the other. Around the world, cataracts are the number one cause of blindness and glaucoma is the number two cause. Fortunately, there are effective treatments for cataracts and glaucoma that can preserve vision.

Glaucoma is caused by increased fluid pressure on the optic nerve, which interferes with vision. The condition is commonly asymptomatic for years until individuals start to notice more significant changes in vision. Loss of peripheral vision and clear night vision are among the initial visual changes, while pain, blurry vision, light sensitivity, nausea, and halos are signs that the condition has entered its more advanced stages. As with many eye conditions, early glaucoma detection and treatments are key for preserving vision. Currently there is no cure for glaucoma; however the advanced treatments we provide at Riverside EyeCare Professionals are virtually painless, quick, and can make significant strides in saving vision.

Cataracts are caused by gradual clouding of the eye’s natural lens. Typical symptoms include blurry/foggy vision, difficulty with night vision, glare, halos, double-vision, and vision loss. Cataracts are a progressive condition and without treatment they can lead to blindness. The good news is that there is a cure for cataracts: cataract surgery. Cataract surgery is a very common and routine procedure, which involves breaking up and removing the cataract from the eye and replacing the natural lens with an intraocular lens (IOL). Our ophthalmologists frequently perform cataract surgery with success, restoring patients’ clear vision with traditional and state-of-the art IOLs.

Having trouble with your vision? Or maybe it’s been a while since your last vision exam. If so, it’s time for an exam at Riverside EyeCare Professionals. Our board-certified ophthalmologists perform comprehensive testing to diagnose any problems you may be having. Contact our office to schedule your appointment today!