Cataract Diagnosis

It is only after an accurate cataract diagnosis is made that cataract removal and treatment can begin. To ensure that your vision problem is correctly attributed to cataracts, it is essential that patients are diagnosed using one of three methods preferred by professional ophthalmologists: pupil dilation, visual acuity testing, or tonometry testing. Further cataracts examination can determine which of the cataract types a patient has, at which point treatment may be prescribed.

How Are Cataracts Detected?

Cataracts are most commonly detected using examinations involving pupil dilation, a visual acuity chart, or tonometry. At times, two or more of these tests may be used in combination for the most accurate cataract diagnosis. Although cataract detection may be slightly uncomfortable, diagnosis by a qualified doctor is the first step toward restoring crisp, clear vision.

Pupil Dilation

Pupil dilation is a common test used in cataract diagnosis. First, the ophthalmologist uses eyedrops to widen your pupils so that he or she can see the back of your eye. It will take 15-20 minutes for your pupils to dilate fully. Then the doctor will ask you to stare straight ahead as each eye is examined with a bright light and special lens. Dilating the pupils allows the ophthalmologist to examine the lens and retina for eye diseases. The doctor may apply pressure to your eyeball through the surrounding skin with a blunt instrument. Although this procedure is somewhat uncomfortable, it is not painful. Pupil dilation can leave your vision blurry and sensitive to light for a few hours after the test. It is best to have sunglasses on hand and make arrangements to be driven home after you leave the doctor’s office.

Visual Acuity Test

In the most well-known vision test, the visual acuity test, the doctor will ask you to read letters or symbols of various sizes from a chart. The eyes will be tested individually and together to measure the accuracy of your eyesight at different distances. This test is frequently used to screen for any visual problems, including cataracts. The visual acuity test provides easy, painless, and quick cataract diagnosis. More tests may be necessary before your doctor can be sure that cataracts are causing your vision problems.

Tonometry Test

A tonometry test can determine whether or not you have a cataract by measuring the fluid pressure inside of your eyes. The doctor will first numb the surface of your eyes using eyedrops. An instrument will be used to place a small amount of pressure on your eye. In some cases, your eye is not touched at all and a puff of air is directed at it instead. Results of this test are most accurate when the patient is relaxed, has not had alcohol for 12 hours prior to the test, has not smoked marijuana for at least 24 hours, and has not had more than two cups of fluid in the past four hours. This test is not painful and only mildly uncomfortable. In addition to providing a cataract diagnosis, the test will also be able to detect signs and symptoms of glaucoma.

Contact a Doctor for More Information on Cataract Diagnosis

Effective treatment cannot begin until a cataract diagnosis is made by a qualified eye doctor. Vision problems should be detected before advanced cataract stages of development begin. Determining that cataracts are the source of your vision problems is the first step toward restoring healthy vision. Find an ophthalmologist practicing in your area for an appointment and diagnosis.