Identifying the symptoms of cataracts early can make a significant difference in protecting your eyesight. Here are 10 signs that suggest it might be time for cataract surgery.
1. Blurry or Cloudy Vision That Doesn’t Improve
If your vision remains blurry even after cleaning your glasses, it could indicate cataracts. Cloudy or foggy lenses are a key symptom, and surgery may be needed.
2. Struggles with Nighttime Vision
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. Eye Strain During Reading or Screen Time
Do your eyes feel tired more often while reading or using digital devices? Cataracts can force your eyes to work harder, causing discomfort and making everyday tasks frustrating.
4. Colors Seem Faded
If the colors around you seem muted or less vibrant, it could be due to cataracts. The clouding of the lens affects your color perception.
5. Constantly Changing Glasses Prescriptions
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. Difficulty Seeing in Bright Light
If you have trouble seeing in bright light, whether indoors or outdoors, it could be a sign of cataracts. The sensitivity to light is a common symptom.
7. Double Vision in One Eye
Seeing double in one eye can be an unusual but telling symptom of cataracts. This issue, known as monocular diplopia, often disappears after surgery.
8. Glare and Halos Around Lights
Struggling with glare or halos around lights, particularly at night, is a common complaint among those with cataracts. This can make activities like driving incredibly challenging.
9. Trouble Judging Distances
Are you having trouble judging distances, such as when walking down stairs or parking your car? Cataracts can affect your depth perception, increasing your risk of accidents.
10. Cataracts Affecting Your Daily Activities
When cataracts start affecting your ability to engage in daily activities like work, driving, or hobbies, surgery may be the right option.
