What Are the Symptoms of Cataracts? When Should I Call the Doctor?

Cataracts

What Are the Symptoms of Cataracts? When Should I Call the Doctor?

Don't attribute vision changes to getting older alone. You might be developing cataracts if the world seems to be growing a touch fuzzy.

It simply implies that the lens of your eye is becoming cloudy. Although anyone can get this ailment, persons 60 and older typically suffer from it. It is also available for both eyes.

It might not be necessary to treat all cataracts. Others, however, necessitate surgery in order to restore normal vision.

Your eye's lens is generally transparent. This enables light to enter the back of your eye, enabling normal vision. Your lens becomes clouded if you have a cataract, though. Your vision becomes foggy, and you have the impression that you are seeing through a streaked or blurred window.

When you look in the mirror, you could even be able to see a whitish or gray film covering your eye if your cataract is really advanced.

What Are the Symptoms?

Cataracts don't hurt. If your eyesight is blurry and the environment around you doesn't appear as it should, you should get your eyes tested.

• It’s hard to see at night.

• You’re sensitive to light.

• Light sources have “halos.”

• You see things in twos, and they may overlap (double or ghosted vision).

• Colors don’t look as bright as they used to.

Do These Symptoms Come on All at Once?

No. Early on, it could appear that only a small portion of your lens is affected by foggy vision. You can be completely unaware of the issue. However, cataracts typically continue to enlarge. Your vision becomes increasingly hazy as they grow bigger.

Additionally, your eye's normally clear lens could change to a yellowish or brownish hue. The globe might begin to resemble an old image. That may make it challenging to carry out routine chores.

When Do I Need to See a Doctor?

Whenever you sense a shift in your vision. Your doctor will do a comprehensive eye exam to identify any cataracts. You'll also be given eye drops so your pupils can be dilated.

Your eye will next be thoroughly examined by your doctor, who will also run a number of tests. They'll explain to you what they think will be the best course of action in light of these findings.

Can My Symptoms Be Treated?

Early-stage cataract eyesight can occasionally be improved with a prescription for new glasses. But over time, they might not be sufficient to regain clear eyesight.

In order to alleviate your discomfort, your eye doctor can suggest using brighter lighting for routine work, anti-glare sunglasses, or even magnifying lenses.