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. Unexplained 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
Cataracts often cause increased glare and halos around lights, making night driving especially dangerous. If this sounds familiar, it may be time to consider cataract surgery.
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. Dull or Muted Colors
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. Frequent Updates to Glasses or Contacts
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
Cataracts often cause light sensitivity, making bright lights uncomfortable and causing you to squint or shield your eyes more often.
7. Seeing Double in One Eye
Double vision in a single eye can be a symptom of cataracts, and it is often alleviated after surgery.
8. Glare and Halos Around Lights
If you notice increased glare or halos around lights, especially at night, it may be due to cataracts. This issue can significantly impact daily activities like driving.
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.
