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Cataracts

David K. Chow, MD, MPH, FACS Our Services Cataracts
David K. Chow, MD, MPH, FACS - - Ophthalmologist

David K. Chow, MD, MPH, FACS

Ophthalmologist located in Reston, VA

Cataracts are very common for Americans in midlife and beyond. In fact, over 24 million U.S. men and women age 40 and older currently have cataracts. If you’re having vision problems that could be cataract symptoms, such as cloudy vision, it’s important that you get help now instead of later. David K. Chow, MD, MPH, FACS, an expert ophthalmologist with 35 years of experience, offers the best in pre- and post-surgery cataract care at his office in Reston, Virginia. Call the office or use online booking to schedule an appointment today.

Cataracts Q & A

What are cataracts?

Cataracts are a condition that clouds your eye’s normally clear lens. Usually, cataracts are age-related. At about age 40, the proteins within your eye lens begin to break down naturally, and this eventually clouds your lens.

Although cataracts may start at around 40, they generally grow very slow. By around age 60, most men and women begin to have at least some lens clouding. Problems are most severe in older adults, and about half of U.S. seniors have cataracts by age 75.

What are the symptoms of cataracts?

If you're suffering from cataracts, you may have symptoms that include:

  • Blurry vision
  • Light sensitivity
  • Difficulty with night vision
  • Yellowing vision
  • Overall fading of vision, causing colors to look lighter than they are

Because cataracts are usually progressive, you may notice only minor symptoms at first, but eventually, cataracts seriously impact your vision.

How can I slow down cataract growth?

You may be able to slow down cataract growth in a few different ways, including:

  • Always wearing protective eyewear when outdoors
  • Eating a well-rounded healthy diet
  • Stopping smoking
  • Effectively managing coexisting conditions that can worsen cataracts, such as diabetes

Dr. Chow may have additional specific suggestions to help you delay cataract growth, which can allow you to avoid surgery for as long as possible.

When do I need cataract surgery?

When cataracts significantly affect your vision, it may be time to talk to Dr. Chow about cataract surgery. Dr. Chow performs a comprehensive eye exam and evaluates your candidacy for cataract removal surgery.

If you’re a good candidate for successful cataract removal surgery, Dr. Chow performs an ultrasound test to get specific eye measurements. These measurements are then used to determine what kind of intraocular lens (IOL) replacement is best for you.

Dr. Chow refers you to a trusted local surgeon for the cataract removal and IOL lens placement.

He continues to manage all your eye care needs both before and after your cataract removal surgery to ensure you have the smoothest and most successful experience possible.

For personalized and dedicated cataract care, call the David K. Chow, MD, or use online booking to schedule an appointment today.

 

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