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Prairie Eye Care

Guide to Cataract Diagnostic Services in Winnipeg

Cataracts are a physical condition where the lens inside the eye becomes clouded, affecting the ability to see. Cataracts are a common condition that becomes especially prevalent as we age – around half of people over the age of 80 either have cataracts or have had cataract surgery.

Left untreated, cataracts are one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide. Fortunately, cataracts can be treated through surgery. The best way to diagnose cataracts is by scheduling regular eye exams.  

Prairie Eye Care in Winnipeg offers comprehensive eye exams so you can take care of your eye health and preserve your vision. Let's discuss cataract diagnostic services.


What Are Cataracts?

Cataracts occur when the clear lens inside the eye becomes clouded. This happens when the proteins that make up the lens of the eye begin to change in structure. This lens is what allows light to enter the eye and project images to the retina – the structure at the back of the eye that helps send signals to the brain, allowing us to see.

Cataracts often develop as we age, but can also be the result of an injury to the eye or UV exposure. Since cataracts might start small and grow slowly, the symptoms of cataracts often develop gradually over time.

How Are Cataracts Diagnosed in Winnipeg?

The symptoms of cataracts are often similar to those of other eye conditions. Cloudy or blurry vision, double vision, sensitivity to light, poor night vision, or seeing colours as faded could all be signs that you are developing cataracts.

Only a trained optometrist or ophthalmologist will be able to correctly diagnose your condition. Your eye doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms and medical history to get a better understanding of your visual health before performing an array of diagnostic tests, including:


Slit Lamp Exam

A slit lamp is a specialized microscope with an intense slit of bright light used to get a closer look at the different structures at the front of the eye, including the lens, iris, and cornea.

This advanced tool is not only critical for diagnosing adult eye conditions but also plays an important role in a child’s comprehensive eye checkup, ensuring early detection of potential issues during a pediatric-focused eye evaluation. Early diagnosis is key to maintaining lifelong eye health.

Diagnostic process for cataracts

Retinal Exam

During a retinal exam, your pupils will be dilated using eye drops. Your eye doctor will then use a bright light and a microscope to get a better view of the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels at the back of the eye.

This process is often enhanced by digital retinal imaging, which captures detailed images of your retina to assist in detecting signs of cataracts, glaucoma, and other eye conditions with greater accuracy.


Refraction Test

A refraction test helps your eye doctor assess how light bends as it moves through your cornea and the lens of your eyes. Your doctor might use a computerized machine to measure the amount of light reflected by your retina or shine a light into your eyes to observe the reflection.

This test is often part of a comprehensive contact lens exam, ensuring the proper prescription and fit for optimal vision and comfort when wearing contact lenses.


Visual Acuity Test

A visual acuity test utilizes the letter chart commonly associated with a visit to the eye doctor. From a distance, you'll be asked to read a series of letters in varying sizes off the chart. Your eye doctor will have you cover one eye at a time while performing this test to determine if you have trouble seeing in one or both eyes.

This test often complements visual field testing, which evaluates your peripheral vision to detect any blind spots or other vision abnormalities.

At Prairie Eye Care in Winnipeg, your health and visual comfort is our top priority. Regular eye exams are the best way to properly diagnose any eye issues and help to preserve your vision. To book an appointment, contact us today.


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