While cataracts usually affect older generations, for Luke Hubbard, aged just 37, it was a shock to experience a rapid bilateral deterioration in vision within just a few weeks of his unexpected cataract diagnosis.
Leicester local Luke said: “I was only able to see colours with my left eye and I could just about make out the outline of objects with my right eye. I felt I was going blind”.
Luke’s Optician First Found the Cataracts
Luke’s cataracts were first diagnosed by his local optician. “I don’t smoke or have any other health conditions like diabetes. The only thing my optician thought may have caused the cataracts were the steroids I took for a very serious chest infection a few months before.”
Dr. Magdalena Edington, Optegra Consultant Ophthalmic surgeon, says: “It is unusual to see such advanced cataracts in a young adult without any history of disease, eye inflammation, or previous trauma. Steroids have been associated with earlier cataract onset, but this usually requires chronic use at high doses.”
Everyday Tasks Became Unbearable Due to Luke’s Poor Vision
Within weeks of the diagnosis, Luke was struggling to undertake even everyday tasks because of his poor vision. “I was in the supermarket with my partner, and I couldn’t see the shelves or labels. I couldn’t ride my motorbike, cook or clean properly or even go for walks as I could not see five feet in front of me. I would have to cling onto whoever was with me for dear life as I wasn’t able to go out alone.”
Luke Regained Clear Vision After Being Referred to Optegra in Leicester
Luke was referred to Optegra Eye Clinic Leicester, where he had a thorough assessment. Due to the severity of his cataracts, he required additional tests and a consultant review. Dr. Magdalena Edington performed an ultrasound scan of his eyes and explained the procedure in detail before listing him for surgery within a few days.
“I was a bag of nerves, but the staff were very kind and reassuring”, Luke said.
“I honestly don’t think I have ever seen this clearly in my life!” says Luke. “My distance vision is outstanding, and I use my usual reading glasses for close up work. It has made me so grateful as I can now live my life again and, importantly, ride my motorbike.”
“If you’re thinking about having cataract surgery, then don’t hesitate. Eyesight is one of the most precious things we have in this world, and to lose it, well, it’s one of the scariest things to happen to me. I didn’t feel a thing during the surgery, and I could see clearly straight away. I can’t thank the team at Optegra enough for giving me my life back.”
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