Health At this week’s regular Wednesday luncheon with my five retired buddies, among other topics, we spent some time discussing one of my colleague’s recent cataract surgery, the very impressive return of his eyesight and the fact that his glasses are no longer needed. At the same luncheon, another of the gents needed to leave a little early to get a regular injection to control his macular degeneration. Aside from the necessity for us to wear glasses with corrective lenses as we age, we are at increased risk for other eye conditions, most commonly cataracts, macular degeneration and glaucoma. As these eye conditions occur more commonly in seniors and, since life expectancy has increased substantially over the years, the occurrence of eye problems has also increased substantially. We need to be reminded of these conditions and ways to help prevent or control them, as well as becoming aware of modern diagnostic and treatment options. Cataracts It is estimated that more than 2.5 million Canadians are affected by cataracts and the numbers grow each year. A cataract is a clouding of the normally clear lens within the eye. The leading symptom is dim or blurred vision in one or both eyes. Persons affected usually complain of symptoms while driving at night. Cataracts usually develop in both eyes around the same time. Diagnosis is often made by a routine examination by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. In the early stages, there may be few or no symptoms, but the condition is progressive and should be followed by regular examinations. It is well documented that ultraviolet light from the sun is damaging to your eyes and increases the likelihood of developing cataracts. Higher levels of exposure increase this risk of damage to your eyes and sunglasses with 100% protection against UVA and UVB rays should be worn. This is especially important for snowbirds who are subjected to more exposure, year-round. Smoking is associated with a threefold risk of developing cataracts, as well as increasing the risk for macular degeneration. Other preventive measures include a healthy diet, limiting your alcohol consumption and taking measures to prevent injury to your eyes. The treatment is surgical removal of the lens and insertion of an artificial lens. The procedure may be performed on one eye at a time, but sometimes both eyes are done concurrently. In Canada, most procedures are carried out in ophthalmology surgical centres outside of the hospital, and the procedure is covered by provincial health insurance plans. The basic artificial lens implant is also covered by the government but, if a more specialized lens is desired, the patient may incur additional costs which are not covered. The special lenses available include ones that reduce dependence on glasses, as well as lenses that may improve the quality of one’s vision. There might be other, uninsured services offered at these clinics or hospital that may not be necessary, and full explanations should be given by staff. Sometimes, private insurance will cover “extra” charges. The outpatient procedure is performed under local anaesthetic and is highly successful. About 500,000 such procedures were done in Canada in the last year. Cataracts, Macular Degeneration and Glaucoma by Robert MacMillan MD 32 | www.snowbirds.org
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