A natural lens inside the eye directs light entering the eye, playing an important role in how well a person can see. The lens will gradually age, causing a decline in vision as the lens turns hard and yellow, a condition called a cataract. A doctor may recommend cataract surgery to remove the cataract and improve vision. Understanding alternatives to cataract surgery can help patients make an informed decision with their doctor regarding the treatment for their cataracts.
No Treatment
Eye surgeons will not recommend surgery unless the cataract causes significant changes in vision. Cataracts affect vision slowly, and many people do not recognize vision changes until they can no longer perform simple tasks, such as threading a needle. Some people do notice the changes, but may wish to put off surgery until they find it absolutely necessary. Delaying surgery despite vision loss from cataracts often occurs when a person has a strong fear of surgery. Waiting for surgery will not cause permanent damage to the eye, explains MayoClinic.com. If a doctor feels the cataract may cause other damaging conditions in the eye, such as an increase in eye pressure, he will discuss this with the patient.
Eyewear
As the natural lens of the eye hardens, forming the cataract, a person may experience vision changes. In the early stages of cataract growth, a change in an eyeglass prescription may improve vision, says the American Optometric Association. For reading and other close work, strong, over-the-counter magnifying glasses may offer some improvement in vision.
Cataracts typically cause problems with glare, particularly at night, and anti-reflective coating on prescription glasses may offer some help. Vision loss from advanced cataracts will not respond to a change in eyewear prescription. At this stage, cataract surgery is the only way to improve vision.
Lighting
The yellowing and hardening of the lens not only causes blurry vision, but vision will also appear dull and yellow. The growth of the cataract will usually require a person to use strong lighting to help with reading and other activities, says the National Eye Institute. A person may find that sitting with a light behind her offers the best lighting, while others may find that a bright light above or to the side helps the most. As the cataract continues to grow, brighter lighting may not offer any improvement to vision.
