Cataracts

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Cataracts are one of the most common causes of gradual vision changes, particularly as we age. At Chapman-Davies Optometry, we help diagnose, monitor, and manage cataracts to keep your vision as clear and comfortable as possible.

 

 

What Is a Cataract?

A cataract is the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which sits behind the iris (the coloured part of the eye).

Normally, the lens focuses light onto the retina to produce clear vision. When a cataract develops, the lens becomes cloudy or opaque, scattering light and causing vision to appear blurred, dim, or hazy.

Cataracts are most commonly age-related, but they can also develop due to:

• Eye injuries

• Certain medications

• Medical conditions such as diabetes

• Long-term UV exposure

 

 

Common Symptoms of Cataracts

You may notice:

• Blurry or cloudy vision

• Glare or halos around lights

• Difficulty driving at night

• Increased sensitivity to light

• Faded or dull colours

• Double vision in one eye

• Frequent prescription changes

Because cataracts usually develop slowly, many people may not realise how much their vision has changed over time.

 

Cataract Treatment

Cataracts cannot be reversed once they develop.

While cataract surgery is the only definitive treatment — performed by an ophthalmologist — early-stage cataracts can often be managed to improve comfort and visual clarity.

At Chapman-Davies Optometry, we help by:

• Monitoring changes in your vision

• Updating glasses prescriptions

• Managing glare and contrast issues

• Determining when surgery may be appropriate

Regular eye examinations are essential for early detection and ongoing monitoring.

 

 

Our Role at Chapman-Davies Optometry

Our primary focus is the diagnosis, management, and monitoring of cataracts.

 

 

Early Detection

Cataracts often develop gradually, and early symptoms can be subtle.

Comprehensive eye examinations allow our optometrists to identify cataracts before they significantly impact daily activities and quality of life.

 

 

Managing the Condition

Although cataracts cannot be treated with medication or non-surgical procedures, symptoms can often be improved with:

• Updated prescription glasses

• Anti-glare lens options

• Lighting and lifestyle recommendations

These strategies may help maintain clearer vision in the earlier stages.

 

 

Monitoring Progression

Because cataracts typically worsen slowly over time, regular monitoring is important.

Our optometrists assess:

• Changes in visual clarity

• Impact on daily activities

• Night driving difficulties

• Sensitivity to glare and light

This helps determine when referral for surgery may be beneficial.

 

 

Examinations We Perform

Visual Acuity Testing

Measuring how clearly you can see at different distances to assess the effect on your vision.

Slit-Lamp Examination

Using a specialised microscope to closely examine the eye’s lens for signs of clouding.

Retinal Examination

Checking the health of the retina and ensuring no other eye conditions are contributing to vision changes.

 

 

Referral for Cataract Surgery

When cataracts begin significantly affecting vision and daily activities, we can refer you to a trusted ophthalmologist for cataract surgery assessment.

Cataract surgery is a common and highly successful procedure that replaces the cloudy lens with a clear artificial lens.

 

 

Book Your Eye Test

Regular eye check ups are important to catch any signs and symptoms of cataracts early on.

Chapman-Davies Optometry provides comprehensive eye examinations for patients.

📞 02 9759 1606

📍 44 The Boulevarde, Lakemba NSW 2195

Our team is here to help you maintain healthy vision.