Almost 25 million Americans over the age of 40 are affected by cataracts. By the time you’re 75, there’s a fifty-fifty chance that you’ll have one. Cataracts normally develop slowly over time, so its crucial to know the early symptoms of cataracts.
While its never too late to have a cataract removed, doing so earlier makes for a quicker recovery and a greater chance of avoiding any significant visual impairment. Let’s take a look at what cataracts are and five warning signs of cataracts to help keep your vision in the clear.
What Are Cataracts
Inside our eyes is a lens that refracts the light as it enters the eye so we can see things. Normally this lens is completely clear, but as we get older the proteins in the lens begin to break down causing the lens to become cloudy.
Cataracts can also be caused by certain medical problems, eye injuries, smoking, certain medications, and overexposure to UV rays. Fortunately, cataracts can be surgically removed, but its best to catch them early on. Cataract surgery at Lotus Vision usually takes less than ten minutes and is one of the most commonly performed surgeries in the US.
Warning Signs of Cataracts
Most cataracts will develop slowly, so the symptoms will often gradually appear and slowly worsen. If you notice any of the following changes in your vision its best to visit your usual eye care provider as soon as possible.
Poor Vision at Night
During the early onset of cataracts, you are likely to notice that your vision seems to worsen at night. Natural light makes it harder to tell during the day, but cataracts will begin to dim your vision.
Driving at night can become difficult as it becomes harder to make out the words on road signs and trickier to see pedestrians. If you do feel that driving is becoming difficult because of your vision, it is important to stop immediately.
Yellow Hue
As the lens of the eye becomes cloudy you will probably notice that your vision develops a yellow or brownish hue. This will affect your ability to tell the difference between colors. It’s important to seek treatment for your cataracts at this point, as your vision will only continue to diminish.
Sensitivity to Light
While cataracts might make it harder to see in the dark they can also increase your sensitivity to light. If you notice that sunlight or bright interior lights are beginning to cause you pain then this could be a sign that you have cataracts developing on the back of your lense.
Seeing Double
The clouding of the cataract can diffract light causing you to see two or more images of an object. This double vision can be the symptom of more serious issues, so it’s important to have it checked out.
Prescription Changes
Your vision will change as cataracts develop. So if you find yourself needing stronger contact lenses or glasses more frequently it could be a sign that you have cataracts.
Keep an Eye Out for These Signs of Cataracts
If you notice any changes to your vision such as the five warning signs of cataracts listed above, it is important to see your eye care provider as soon as possible. The process for removing cataracts is usually straightforward, and even more so if caught early on.
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