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Michigan's Leading Eye Care Physicians

Study Shows Cataract Surgery Reduces Car Crash Risk

Eye Michigan Cataract Surgery Reduces Car Crash Risk

Cataracts are a common problem that affects over 24 million people over the age of 40 in America. More than half of all U.S. citizens develop cataracts by the time they are 80 years old.

Do Cataracts Cause Vehicle Accidents?

When people grow older and develop cataracts, it becomes much harder to do the things they used to do. That includes everyday activities like driving. Oxford Academic published a study on September 28th, 2018 that found cataract surgery had a positive impact on the number of seniors involved in car crashes.

The study involved 2,849 drivers age 60 or older in Western Australia. Each had undergone cataract surgery on both eyes and were involved in a vehicular accident as the driver. A total of 1,312 participants were involved in 1,347 accidents during the 12 months before they had cataract surgery. A total of 775 were involved in 850 accidents during the time between their first and second surgeries. And 895 were involved in 916 accidents during the year after their second cataract surgery.

Researchers compared the results and worked in other risk factors to find that there was a 61% reduction in accident risk after the first cataract removal. There was a 23% reduction after the second surgery.

Cataract Removal Reduces Accident Costs

The total cost of all the accidents counted in the study was around $80.5 million AUD (or $57.30 million USD) during the year before the first removal. The total was $60.4 million AUD after the second surgery. The total surgeries cost $5.1 million AUD, which netted a savings of $14.9 million AUD for the community that was credited to participants having their cataracts removed.

If you experience vision changes, contact Grosinger, Spigelman & Grey’s ophthalmologists for an appointment. They can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend treatment that will keep you driving safely well into your golden years.

5 Things You Can Do to Lower Your Risk of Cataracts

Cataracts are a common problem that affects over 24.4 million Americans above the age of 40. Around half of all adults in the U.S. develop the condition by the time they reach age 75. It can cause changes in vision ranging from minor blurriness to blindness. There are ways you can lower your risk of cataracts.

Make Sure Your Diet is Rich in Nutrients

Your diet affects every part of your body – including your eyes. A study of over 35,500 women was conducted in 2008. The results found that participants who consumed more antioxidants from yellow or dark green leafy vegetables lowered their risk of cataracts by 18%.  Additional studies have also pointed to omega-3 fatty acids as being beneficial.

Don’t Smoke or Stop If You Already Do

It’s a well-known fact that smoking is not good for you. It can also affect your vision. Research has suggested that people who smoke are twice as likely to develop cataracts compared to those who do not. The risk increases based on how much you smoke.

Enjoy Adult Beverages in Moderation

Adult beverages are not inherently bad for your eyes. However, much like other vices, enjoying them in excess can increase your likeliness of getting cataracts. Drink in moderation and keep your risk low.

Avoid Long-Term Use of Oral Steroids

Oral steroids are known to cause cataracts when used long-term. There is conflicting information about whether nasal spray or inhaled versions are also as risky. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns about steroid use and cataract risk.

Schedule Regular Eye Exams

Living a healthy lifestyle and scheduling regular eye exams are the best ways to avoid cataracts and to receive proper treatment if you do develop them. Your ophthalmologist can check for signs of this condition and suggest ways to keep your risk minimal. Contact Grosinger, Spigelman & Grey Michigan’s Leading Eye Care Physicians to schedule your appointment.

Considering Cataract Surgery? What You Should Know

Eye Michigan When Is It Time for Cataract Surgery

Cataracts are a common problem, but one that is correctable. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, approximately 25.7 million people age 40 and up in the U.S. have cataracts. That number is expected to grow to 45.6 million over the next few decades. Good eye health is important, and that means knowing when a procedure is or isn’t needed.

What Happens During Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery usually starts with a mild sedative. The doctor will also put anesthetic eye drops into the affected eye to prevent any discomfort. During the procedure, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an intraocular lens, also known as an IOL. If there are no complications, the process should take around 10 minutes.

The patient will be moved to a recovery area until sedation wears off, which can take up to an hour. Vision is greatly improved immediately after surgery, but doctors will generally advise against driving and similar activities for at least 24 hours.

Signs That You Need Cataract Surgery

If your cataracts are not causing issues with your vision, then you do not need to have surgery yet. Once they start to impede on your ability to live safely and independently, then it is time to talk to an ophthalmologist about surgery. Ask yourself if the cataracts are:

  • Preventing you from completing daily activities
  • Preventing you from working in your occupation
  • Interfering with your ability to drive safely
  • Interfering with your ability to enjoy outdoor activities

If you answer yes to any of these, then it may be time to have your cataracts removed. If you are uncertain, the best option is to talk to a professional. Contact Grosinger, Spigelman & Grey at our Southeast Michigan ophthalmologist office today to schedule a consultation.

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