Will Blood Pressure Affect Cataract Surgery?

For clear vision, the eye lens needs to be transparent to allow the passage of light to the retina. Cataracts occur when the thin lens covering the eyeball becomes clouded, blurring the vision. As cataracts grow and the light fails to get through, it becomes harder to see. 
 

They mostly affect many patients over the age of 65. Cataracts can affect one or both eyes. If left untreated, the condition can lead to vision loss. Cataract surgery can help treat the issue. However, if you struggle with high blood pressure, you may be wondering if blood pressure will affect cataract surgery. 

Symptoms of Cataracts 

Several symptoms may indicate the presence of cataracts. They include blurred, dim, or clouded vision, light and glare sensitivity, difficulties with night vision, and the need for brighter lights. Seeing halos and frequent changes in the lens prescription may also be symptoms. 

Some patients experience yellowing or fading colors and double vision in one eye. In the early stages, cataracts affect a small part of the lens. Most people do not experience symptoms until the cataract grows. 

Blood Pressure and Cataracts

There is research that suggests a link between blood pressure and cataracts. It implicates certain drugs prescribed to reduce blood pressure as active contributors to the increased risk of cataracts. In particular, it points to calcium channel blockers and beta-blockers, drugs that are prescribed to help lower blood pressure. 

Some experts believe that high blood pressure can cause the development of cataracts, but there is insufficient evidence to support this. Experimental research shows that beta-blockade could affect lens transparency by altering lens cell balance.

Cataract Surgery
 

Cataract surgery is a procedure that treats cataracts through the removal and replacement of the damaged eye lens. The replacement lens is an artificial intraocular lens that is implanted permanently. 

In 90 percent of cases, the lens helps restore the patient’s eyesight. Almost 4 million people get cataract surgery each year. Surgical techniques have improved over the years, and complications are rare. Problems after the procedure are only likely to occur if the patient has pre-existing eye or medical conditions. Blood pressure does not affect the outcome of cataract surgery.

Common Side Effects

The common side effects of cataract surgery are minor, usually going away after a short period without a need for treatment. The side effects include itchiness, blurry vision, inflammation, light sensitivity, floaters, and droopy eyelid. Wearing sunglasses, and taking care of the eyes after surgery, will help prevent complications. 

Treating Blood Pressure

If you have high blood pressure, it is necessary to talk to your doctor before you get cataract surgery. Your doctor will want to discuss existing medical conditions and anything that may affect the outcome of the surgery. If you are on medication that can affect your eye condition, changing the prescription can help. 

Some people avoid getting cataract-removal surgery for fear of the procedure. It is necessary to realize that eyesight worsens if one does not go for cataracts treatment. The procedure is simple and effective. The surgery results in improved sight and reduced need to wear corrective lenses. 

 

For more on blood pressure and cataract surgery, call Santa Barbara Eyecare in Santa Barbara (805) 967-9990 or Goleta (805) 451-8180 today.