Cataract Update by Becky Sisk

clinics. They take the cataract out through a tiny slit at the

edge of the sac that contains the clouded lens. They usually

use "phacoemulsification," a process that liquefies the lens

so it can be withdrawn through a needle and syringe.

A clear plastic replacement lens (the intraocular lens)

is inserted in the sac and the incision is sewn up with a

suture that dissolves later. Other procedures are also used,

so you should discuss your own case with your surgeon. The

common misconception that lasers are used in cataract surgery

is not true. Fortunately, cataract surgery is covered by

insurance and Medicare.

What Will I Be Able to Do After Surgery?

Patients can go home as soon as they are stable. You

should avoid heavy activity and avoid rubbing the affected

eye. Other instructions depend on the physician's

preferences. Most cataract surgeries are successful, but a

few complications are possible, so be sure to follow up with

the surgeon postoperatively.

You will probably be happy with

the results of your surgery. However, be aware that cataract

surgery will not help other eye problems you may have, such

as glaucoma, macular degeneration, or eye problems

related to diabetes.

What Type of Doctors Perform Cataract Surgery?

Cataracts require medical intervention, so it is important

that you go to a board-certified ophthalmic surgeon, rather

than to an optometrist, when you suspect a cataract.

Doctors with the initials "F.A.C.S." behind their names have

demonstrated their knowledge and skills and are board-

certified.

Where Can I Find Further Information?

Try these websites:

* The American Academy of Ophthalmology

http://www.medem.com/MedLB/articleslb.cfm?sub_cat=119

* The American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery

http://ascrs.org/eye/eye.html

* The National Eye Institute

http://www.nei.nih.gov/health/index.htm

* Prevent Blindness America

http://www.preventblindness.org/eye_problems/cataractFAQ.html

*****************************************************************

Becky Sisk is owner and webmaster of NurseScribe, http://www.eNurseScribe.com/.

This article is for information use only and is not medical

advice. Please consult your physician if you are concerned with

the condition of your eyes or other medical conditions.

For free articles on medical topics, go to

http://www.eNurseScribe.com/medarts.htm.

*****************************************************************

Go to Page 1

BIO:

Becky Sisk is owner and webmaster of NurseScribe, http://www.eNurseScribe.com/.

Some Aditional Articles you may enjoy

Healing the Cherished Ones by Margaret Loris, The Sunhealer

Three Questions People Are Asking About Health Care in America by Marc Eskew

Cut the Take Out by Lisa "The Crock Cook"

Treat Chickenpox with natural remedies, herbs and nutrients. by Charles Silverman

The Omega Zone Diet and Fish Oil by Iulia Pascanu

Click a Number to go to an article index page
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 | 32 | 33 | 34 | 35 | 36 | 37 | 38 | 39