Managing Vision Discrepancies with Cataracts: Tips for Patients

Q: Managing Vision Discrepancies with Cataracts: Tips for Patients

Hello： <br>1. <br>For an eye that is myopic and has early cataracts but has not yet reached the stage for surgery： If one of your eyes has already undergone cataract surgery and the other eye also has myopia and early cataract changes, you may consider undergoing surgery on one e

Unilateral cataract in the other eye, binocular disparity issue?

Hello, I have already discussed using an aspheric monofocal intraocular lens with the ophthalmology clinic on October 31, as I inquired about glare issues, which was recommended by the nurse.

1.
I asked how to manage my left eye, which has myopia and slight cataracts but is not yet at the stage for surgery, in relation to my right eye that has already undergone cataract surgery.

2.
The nurse suggested wearing contact lenses, but due to personal reasons, I can only wear glasses.
I plan to replace the right lens with a plano lens, but will having a multifocal lens in my left eye cause any conflicts?
3.
The nurse mentioned that I could also choose not to wear glasses, as I will eventually rely more on one eye, while the function of the other eye will gradually diminish.
Is this true?
4.
I found information stating that wearing glasses can cause dizziness.
Is this accurate? Would it be better to retain some degree of vision in my right eye? Initially, my right eye was -7.75 diopters, and I was prescribed -7.00 diopters, which already creates a disparity between the two eyes.
Thank you.

Jing Ju, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/11/03

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello:
1.
For an eye that is myopic and has early cataracts but has not yet reached the stage for surgery: If one of your eyes has already undergone cataract surgery and the other eye also has myopia and early cataract changes, you may consider undergoing surgery on one eye or waiting until the cataract in the other eye progresses to the point where surgery is necessary.
You should discuss the best option for your situation with your ophthalmologist.
2.
Issues with wearing glasses: If you decide to wear glasses instead of contact lenses, ensure that your glasses prescription is professionally measured to ensure proper vision correction.
If your left eye requires multifocal lenses while your right eye needs single vision lenses, this configuration may cause some degree of disparity, but your brain usually adapts to this situation.
However, it may take some time, and you might initially experience slight discomfort.
Please consult your optician for detailed design and adjustments to minimize disparity.
3.
Recommendation for not wearing glasses in one eye: The recommendation for not wearing glasses in one eye essentially means that if you have undergone cataract surgery and the other eye still has good vision, you may choose not to wear glasses or contact lenses for a more natural visual experience.
However, this also depends on your personal preference and comfort level, as well as your tolerance for disparity.
4.
Dizziness issues: After changing your glasses prescription or undergoing surgery on one eye, you may experience some temporary discomfort, including dizziness.
This is usually due to the brain needing to adapt to the new visual situation and typically improves over time.
If dizziness persists or worsens, you should consult your ophthalmologist to ensure everything is normal.

Reply Date: 2023/11/03

More Info

Managing vision discrepancies, especially when dealing with cataracts and differing prescriptions between eyes, can be a complex issue. Here are some insights and tips to help you navigate this situation effectively.

1. Understanding Your Condition: It’s important to recognize that cataracts can cause significant changes in vision, including blurriness, glare, and difficulty seeing in low light. When one eye has undergone cataract surgery and the other has not, it can lead to a disparity in vision quality. This is often referred to as "monovision," where one eye is optimized for distance vision (post-surgery) and the other may still be affected by cataracts.

2. Coping with Vision Differences: Since you have already had cataract surgery on your right eye and are considering surgery for your left eye, it’s crucial to manage the differences in vision. Your eye care professional may recommend using glasses that accommodate the differences in your vision. If your left eye still has some degree of cataract, it may not be advisable to wear multifocal lenses, as they can exacerbate the visual discrepancies. Instead, single-vision lenses for your right eye and a suitable prescription for your left eye may be more beneficial.

3. Glasses vs. Contact Lenses: While the nurse suggested contact lenses, you mentioned that you can only wear glasses. If you are experiencing discomfort or dizziness with your current glasses, it may be due to the difference in prescriptions. It’s essential to have your glasses adjusted to ensure they fit well and provide the best possible vision. If you are considering changing your lenses, consult with your optometrist about how to best balance the prescriptions to minimize discomfort.

4. The Role of Glasses: The idea that you might not need glasses because one eye will become dominant is somewhat misleading. While it is true that the brain may adapt to favor one eye, it does not mean that the other eye will simply "fade away." Instead, both eyes will continue to play a role in your overall vision. If you experience dizziness when wearing glasses, it could be due to the difference in lens power or the way your brain is processing the visual information from each eye. It’s essential to communicate these symptoms to your eye care provider.

5. Managing Dizziness: If wearing glasses causes dizziness, it’s crucial to have your prescription checked. Sometimes, a small adjustment in the lens power can make a significant difference. Additionally, ensure that your glasses are properly aligned and fitted to your face. If the dizziness persists, it may be worth exploring other underlying causes with your healthcare provider.

6. Future Considerations: As you prepare for potential surgery on your left eye, discuss with your ophthalmologist the best options for your specific situation. They can provide guidance on whether to opt for a similar lens type as your right eye or if a different approach might yield better results.
In summary, managing vision discrepancies post-cataract surgery requires careful consideration of your current visual needs and the potential for future surgery. Regular communication with your eye care provider is essential to ensure that you receive the best possible care tailored to your unique situation. Always feel free to ask questions and express any concerns you may have during your appointments.

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