When Retinal Conditions Are Mistaken for Cataracts
Some retinal conditions can mimic cataracts, which may lead to misdiagnosis by an ophthalmologist. Common overlapping symptoms, such as blurry vision and vision loss, can make it difficult to differentiate between these conditions. If you're an older adult, you may have a higher risk of cataracts and other retinal diseases. Therefore, it’s important to see a retina specialist regularly, in addition to your annual ophthalmologist appointments.
Cataracts vs Other Retinal Conditions
Cataracts and certain retinal conditions, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), progress slowly over time and cause cloudy vision, increasing difficulty seeing at night, and loss of clear color vision. Aging, smoking, sun exposure, and genetics can all lead to both cataracts and AMD. While the two conditions share similar symptoms, the main difference is that macular degeneration causes dark areas to appear in the center of your vision. Cataracts and glaucoma also exhibit similar symptoms, such as blurred vision, halos around lights, and reduced night vision, complicating accurate diagnosis.
The Importance of an Accurate Diagnosis
Although cataracts and conditions like AMD share similar symptoms and causes, their treatments differ. Cataracts are treated through surgery, while AMD is managed with supplements, lifestyle changes, eye injections, and laser therapies. Doctors can reverse cataracts through surgery, but AMD currently has no cure. Getting a proper diagnosis for your retinal condition is crucial. The sooner you're diagnosed, the faster treatment can begin, helping to protect and preserve vision.
Schedule an Appointment with a Retina Specialist
Cataracts and AMD are conditions that can significantly impact your vision. However, AMD requires more specified treatments and regular, lifelong care. At The Retina Eye Center, we offer second opinions, as well as highly advanced diagnostic tools. Your initial visit will take two to three hours, so we can get a full picture of your retinal health. Some of our diagnostic options include ultrasonography, fundus photography, visual field testing, and fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography. These tests are specifically designed to get to the root of any retinal issue.
The Retina Eye Center is committed to providing precise diagnoses and effective treatments for a wide range of retinal conditions. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment in Aiken, South Carolina, or Augusta, Georgia.