It is expected that number of cataract cases in the United States will double by 2050. In the past, the only effective way to treat cataracts was surgery, which means the demand for the procedure will also increase dramatically. If you had a cataract, your doctor would remove the cloudy lens and replace it with an artificial one. But new promising treatments could make cataract surgery a thing of the past.
Treating with Drops Instead of Surgery
Researchers are investigating a new therapy using lanosterol eye drops which could be the next best option to surgery for effectively treat cataracts. They could be an easier and cheaper alternative. It is possible that these drops could be used as a preventative treatment for those who are at risk of developing them. In testing on dogs, lanosterol has shown promise in improving vision by dissolving the clumping of proteins that form cataracts.
Research for Potential Drug-Based Therapy
Researchers are also studying how lens proteins clump together to form cataracts. This study of proteins could open up possibilities in treating cataracts and even neurological diseases that are caused by undesirable protein clumping. It may be possible through this research to find a drug-based therapy to reduce and reverse the clumping that causes cataracts.
Early Detection is Key
A cataract can be detected during a comprehensive eye exam way before an individual may realize that something is off with their vision. They typically begin to form around the age of 50. Age is not the only risk. Having a familial history also increases the risk for an individual developing the condition.
Early detection is key to catching cataracts early and reversing them in the near future with the treatments above. Therefore, it is essential to keep up with your yearly exams and contact your eye doctor immediately if you notice any changes in your vision.
Contact Valley Eyecare Center at (602) 955-2700 to schedule your next eye exam.
