Can an eye test detect cataracts?

Testing for age-related cataracts An optician will do a series of eye tests, including a visual acuity exam, which measures how well you see at various distances. If the optician thinks you have cataracts, you may be referred to an eye specialist (ophthalmologist) for more tests and treatment.

Can you cure a cataract without surgery?

Unfortunately, there’s no way to get rid of cataracts without cataract surgery.

What kind of tests do they do for cataracts?

To determine if you have a cataract, your eye doctor will perform three specific tests: a retinal exam, a slit-lamp exam and a visual acuity test. These will take place during a comprehensive eye exam. During a visual acuity test, your eye doctor will ask you to read different sized letters from an eye chart, one eye at a time.

What to do if you think you have cataracts?

Your optician will do a series of eye tests, including a visual acuity exam, which measures how well you see at various distances. If your optician thinks you have cataracts, you may be referred to an eye specialist (ophthalmologist) for more tests and treatment.

When did I find out I had cataracts in both eyes?

Discussion in ‘ Ask A Question ‘ started by Duncan57, Apr 25, 2016 . I have just had a eye check at the Hospital eye clinic today. I was told for the first time that I have cataracts in both eyes. This was news to me as I had my first eye check at Boots in 2014 for blurred vision and I was prescribed glasses.

What happens to your eyesight when you get cataracts?

Cataracts occur when cloudy patches develop in the clear lens inside your eye, stopping light from reaching the back of the eye, and causing blurred or misty vision. In most people, cataracts simply develop as they age, with most cases developing after the age of 65.

How does a doctor determine if you have cataract?

To determine whether you have a cataract, your doctor will review your medical history and symptoms, and perform an eye examination. Your doctor may conduct several tests, including: Visual acuity test. A visual acuity test uses an eye chart to measure how well you can read a series of letters.

What is a potential acuity test for cataract surgery?

Potential Acuity Test. A potential acuity test or PAM test is a different way to measure how good the eye will see if the cataract did not exist. Surgeons need to know that the cataract surgery will improve the patient’s vision. A PAM test projects a visual acuity eye chart with letters into the eye with a laser and by-passes the cataract.

How are contrast sensitivity tests used to diagnose cataract?

Eye doctors consider contrast sensitivity testing to be a more realistic measurement of true quality of vision. A slit lamp is a special type of microscope that magnifies your eye so your doctor can examine the lens to determine the presence and severity of a cataract. Your doctor will ask you to place your chin on the chin rest of the slit lamp.

How are Pam tests used to diagnose cataract?

Surgeons need to know that the cataract surgery will improve the patient’s vision. A PAM test projects a visual acuity eye chart with letters into the eye with a laser and by-passes the cataract. The patient simply reads the chart similar to a normal eye chart on the wall.