June is Cataract Awareness & Fireworks Eye Safety Month

CATARACT

More than 20 million Americans over the age of 40 have cataracts.  A cataract is a gradual clouding of the clear lens in the eye, the part that focuses light and produces clear images.  As old cells die they become trapped.  As time passes, more cells die and accumulate causing the lens to cloud, making vision blurred and dim.  Cataracts form slowly and painlessly, but can eventually lead to blindness.

Cataracts can be caused by metabolic diseases such as diabetes, an injury to the eye, medications, long-term exposure to the sun, eye surgery, congenital defects or aging. If you experience any of the following schedule an exam:
  • Blurry vision, with no pain
  • Glare, or sensitivity to light
  • Double vision in one eye
  • The need to read with brighter light
  • Poor night vision
  • Dull or yellowed image
  • Family history of cataracts
  • Medical problems, such as diabetes
  • High salt intake
  • Long-term, unprotected exposure to sunlight
  • Eye Injuries
  • Long term prednisone intake

When our doctors diagnose a patient with a cataract, surgery is the only method in which to remove the cataract.  Technological advances have made cataract surgery safer, more comfortable and more effective. The success rate of cataract surgery is excellent.  Talk to our doctors to find out if you need cataract surgery.

FIREWORKS SAFETY


Fireworks are commonly used in the summertime and too often someone suffers a serious eye injury as a result. Fireworks should never be used at home, they are very dangerous and unsafe when they are not handled by professionals.
  Many eye injuries occur each year due to fireworks, and most of the victims are children.  Such injuries can result in permanent vision loss or blindness.  According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, illegal fireworks including bottle rockets and Roman candles account for the majority of injuries.  Bottle rockets are especially dangerous because it can cause harm to innocent bystanders.

Sparklers may not seem that harmful, but they still account for some of the eye injuries seen each year due to fireworks.  Sparklers burn up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit, and can also cause permanent vision loss or blindness.
The following are some safety tips that everyone can follow:

  • When attending a show keep a safe distance, stand at least 500 feet away. 
  • Always follow directions from public safety personnel.
  • Do not let children play with any type of fireworks.
  • If unexploded fireworks are found, contact the local fire or police department.
  • Leave the fireworks to the professionals.

All eye injuries are preventable.  Please be safe and cautious when celebrating the holidays this year.  



This message was brought to you by Friedberg Eye Associates and the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

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