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. 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
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. Dull or Muted Colors
When you notice that colors appear less vivid or muted, cataracts could be distorting your color vision, making everything seem dull.
5. Frequent Updates to Glasses or Contacts
Frequent visits to update your glasses prescription could be a sign of cataracts, as the condition causes vision changes that require more adjustments.
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
Monocular diplopia, or double vision in one eye, is a rare but possible sign of cataracts. This often resolves with cataract surgery.
8. Struggling with 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
If you’re having difficulty estimating distances, whether walking or parking, cataracts could be affecting your depth perception.
10. Cataracts Interfering with Your Routine
If cataracts are preventing you from doing things you love or affecting your work, it’s time to think about surgery.
