by EBSCO Medical Review Board

You have your own health history. Talk with your doctor about your risk factors and background with cataracts. By talking openly and often with your doctor, you can take an active role in your care.

Here are some tips that will make it simpler for you to talk to your doctor:

  • Bring someone with you. It helps to have another person hear what is said and think of questions to ask. They may also be able to provide more details to the doctor.
  • Write down your questions so do you do not forget them.
  • Write down the answers you get and make sure you understand what you are hearing. Ask for help if you need it.
  • Do not be afraid to ask your questions or ask where you can find more information. You have a right to know.
    • How do I know if I have a cataract?
    • Is there anything that puts me at higher risk? Can I lower this risk?
    • How often should I have my eyes checked for cataracts?
    • If I get a cataract in one eye, does that mean I will get a cataract in the other eye?
    • If I get cataracts, should I have surgery right away?
    • Are there any steps I can take to manage symptoms?
    • What steps can I take to delay cataracts or slow their growth?
    • What steps should I take after cataract surgery?
    • Will eye surgery make my eyesight the way it was before cataracts?
    • Is my surgery an emergency?
    • What is the success rate for surgery?
    • How many times have you done this surgery?
    • How soon after surgery will I be able to see well enough to go back to work? Drive a car? Go back to full activity?
    • Should I have surgery now or can I wait?
    • What type of intraocular lens is best for me?

    References

    Cataract. American Optometric Association website. Available at: https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-and-vision-conditions/cataract?sso=y. Accessed May 2, 2022.

    Cataracts. National Eye Institute website. Available at: https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/cataracts. Accessed May 2, 2022.

    Cataracts in adults. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/cataracts-in-adults. Accessed May 2, 2022.

    Getting the most out of your doctor appointment. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: https://familydoctor.org/tips-for-talking-to-your-doctor. Accessed May 3, 2022.

    What are cataracts? American Academy of Ophthalmology website. Available at: https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-are-cataracts. Accessed May 2, 2022.

    Revision Information

    • Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board James P. Cornell, MD
    • Review Date: 11/2021
    • Update Date: 05/03/2022