Although surgery is the only treatment that will cure a cataract, there are some measures that may help control some symptoms of cataracts. Some of these measures may help slow the progression, as well.

General Guidelines for Managing Cataracts

Wear Sunglasses

Wearing UVA and UVB blocking sunglasses can help reduce glare and bright sunlight that affects people with cataracts.

Wear A Hat

Wearing a hat can also protect your eyes from sunlight and fluorescent light.

Avoid Fluorescent Light

Avoiding fluorescent light can help reduce glare that causes vision difficulty for some people with cataracts. Standard bulbs or special lamps can help reduce glare indoors.

Consider Nutritional Supplements

Some nutritional supplements, such as antioxidant multivitamins, may help slow the progression of cataracts. A daily multivitamin is good for your general health as well. Talk to you doctor about which nutritional supplements are appropriate for you.

When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider

  • You should contact your eye doctor and discuss having surgery for cataracts when your vision difficulties get to the point where:
  • You feel unsafe or uncomfortable
  • You are unable to perform normal daily tasks or activities, such as:
    • Reading
    • Driving
    • Watching television
    • Cooking
    • Taking medications

    Cataract surgery is much safer and more successful than in the past. Today some eye doctors and surgeons recommend having cataract surgery sooner rather than later because delaying the surgery may make it more difficult to perform. Removing a cataract is rarely an emergency, therefore it should not be performed until you feel ready to have the surgery.