Information on the Cataract Diagnostic Test, Examination and Diagnosis

Submitted on March 27, 2012

They eyes are made up of many different parts that all perform important functions associated with vision. The outer layer of the eye is lubricated to ensure that foreign objects get easily removed. This outer layer also protects the inner parts of the eye. The lens is one of the critical parts of the eye that helps with proper vision. The lens focuses light to the back of the eye where cells designed to pick up the images are present. These cells then pass the information to the brain where it is understood.

Cataract is a condition where the lens of the eye gets clouded over. Cataract is a condition that is almost always associated with old age. As individuals age, a number of changes take place in the body. One of these changes is the development of cataract. The development of cataract is a slow, gradual process. This leads to the gradual loss of vision. Normally, the loss of vision begins in the peripheral vision. This is why some people tend to ignore the problem. As the problem advances, it tends to cover a larger area of the eye. This eventually leads to completely blurred vision as the cloud covers the eye. An individual with complete cataract will have the ability to perceive light. However, vision will be extremely clouded if not completely clouded. Externally, cataract is visible as a grayish blot that covers the pupil of the eye. This is more easily visible in individuals who have dark colored eyes.

Why is a Cataract Test Done?

A cataract test is used to determine if the individual has cataract in the eye that is suffering from affected vision. The most common cataract test involves pupil dilation. Special eye drops are used to dilate the pupils. Following this, the patient’s eye is examined by the doctor extensively using lighting and magnifying equipment. A cataract test is needed before the cataract surgery can be performed on the eye. Individuals who have the pupil dilation cataract test will need to be accompanied home from the clinic as their vision will be partially or extremely blurred, particularly if they are already suffering from cataract.

Cataract Examination and Diagnosis

The cataract diagnostic test usually takes half an hour to one hour to be completed from the time that the patient receives the eye drops. The cataract test or examination is used to determine if the lens needs to be replaced with an artificial lens. This is done so that the patient regains full vision in the affected eye. It is necessary that you get complete details from the doctor on the cataract test diagnosis before the test is carried out.

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