Cataract Awareness Month: Don’t Let Cataracts Cloud Your Vision

June is Cataract Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to learn about one of the most common causes of vision loss in adults. While cataracts are a natural part of aging, many people live with blurry or diminished vision longer than they need to because they assume it’s simply “getting older.”

At Tower Clock Eye Center, we help patients throughout Northeast Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula understand their options and regain the clear vision they deserve through advanced cataract surgery. With clinics in Appleton, Green Bay and Shawano, our physicians specialize in cataract care and have helped thousands of patients return to the activities they enjoy most.

What Are Cataracts?

A cataract occurs when the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy over time. The lens sits behind the iris and helps focus light onto the retina. As the lens becomes less clear, vision gradually becomes blurred, dull or distorted.

Cataracts typically develop slowly, which is why many people don’t immediately recognize how much their vision has changed.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Cataracts

You may be developing cataracts if you notice:

• Blurry or cloudy vision
• Increased glare from headlights or sunlight
• Difficulty driving at night
• Colors appearing faded or yellowed
• Frequent changes in glasses prescriptions
• Double vision in one eye
• Needing brighter light for reading

Many patients tell us they thought these changes were simply part of aging until they experienced the dramatic improvement that cataract surgery can provide.

When Is It Time to Consider Cataract Surgery?

A common misconception is that cataracts must be “ripe” before they can be removed. In reality, cataract surgery is often recommended when your vision begins interfering with daily activities such as:

• Driving, especially at night
• Reading
• Watching television
• Using digital devices
• Hobbies like golfing, fishing, sewing, or woodworking
• Recognizing faces

The decision isn’t based on a specific age or cataract severity—it’s based on how your vision is affecting your quality of life.

Modern Cataract Surgery Has Come a Long Way

Today’s cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed and successful surgical procedures in medicine.

During the procedure, the cloudy natural lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL). The procedure is typically completed on an outpatient basis and most patients return to normal activities quickly.

In many cases, cataract surgery can do more than simply remove a cataract. Modern lens technology may also reduce dependence on glasses for certain activities, depending on a patient’s individual needs and eye health.

Why Patients Choose Tower Clock Eye Center

For more than 40 years, Tower Clock Eye Center has provided comprehensive medical and surgical eye care throughout Northeast Wisconsin. Our surgeons specialize in cataract surgery and utilize advanced technology to customize treatment for each patient.

Patients choose Tower Clock Eye Center because of our:

• Experienced cataract surgeons – who you’ll meet in the consultation process
• Advanced diagnostic and surgical technology
• State-of-the-art surgery centers
• Personalized treatment plans
• Convenient locations in Green Bay, Appleton and Shawano
• Commitment to exceptional patient care

Don’t Ignore Changes in Your Vision

Because cataracts develop gradually, it’s easy to adapt to worsening vision without realizing how much clarity has been lost. Cataract Awareness Month is a great reminder to schedule a comprehensive eye examination if you’ve noticed changes in your sight.

Many patients tell us they wish they had addressed their cataracts sooner after seeing the difference clear vision makes in their daily lives.

Schedule a Cataract Consultation

If cataracts are affecting your vision, the team at Tower Clock Eye Center is here to help. Our experienced physicians will evaluate your eyes, discuss your treatment options, and determine whether cataract surgery may be right for you.

To schedule a consultation, call 920-499-3102.

Clearer vision may be closer than you think.