Recognizing the signs of cataracts can help you take timely action to protect your vision. Here are 10 key indicators that it may be time to consider cataract surgery.
1. Persistent Blurred or Cloudy Vision
If your glasses don’t seem to fix your blurry vision, cataracts could be the cause. A cloudy lens is one of the main signs that surgery may be needed.
2. Challenges with Seeing at Night
Driving at night can become particularly challenging if you’re experiencing cataracts. Many patients report increased glare and halos around streetlights or oncoming headlights, making nighttime navigation unsafe.
3. Increased Eye Strain
Feeling more fatigued or strained while reading or looking at screens may signal cataracts, as your eyes are forced to work harder than usual.
4. Colors Seem Faded
When you notice that colors appear less vivid or muted, cataracts could be distorting your color vision, making everything seem dull.
5. Frequent Prescription Changes
Have you been visiting your optometrist more often for new glasses or contact lens prescriptions? Frequent adjustments to your vision correction can be a sign that cataracts are progressing.
6. Trouble with Bright Lights
Cataracts often cause light sensitivity, making bright lights uncomfortable and causing you to squint or shield your eyes more often.
7. Monocular Double Vision
Monocular diplopia, or double vision in one eye, is a rare but possible sign of cataracts. This often resolves with cataract surgery.
8. Increased Glare and Halos
Glare and halos around lights are common symptoms of cataracts, often making driving or other activities difficult, especially at night.
9. Trouble Judging Distances
Cataracts can impair your depth perception, making it difficult to judge distances, which can be dangerous when walking or driving.
10. Cataracts Interfering with Your Routine
If cataracts are interfering with your ability to work, drive, or enjoy hobbies like reading and gardening, it’s time to consider surgery. Don’t let cataracts dictate how you live your life.
