7 Signs You May Have Cataracts

Cataracts — cloudy spots that develop on the lens of your eye — affect your ability to see clearly. Most cataracts develop over time and are age-related. Because of this slow development of symptoms, it may be tough to notice them at first. However, you may start to notice signs such as blurry vision, sensitivity to glare, and difficulty seeing at night.

Cataract surgery is the only way to correct this problem, but your doctor most likely won’t recommend this until the cataracts begin to impact your vision and quality of life. Let’s talk about the seven common signs you may have cataracts.

1. Blurry Vision

This is the most common sign you may have cataracts, either in one eye or both. When a cataract is present, this means the natural lens has become obstructed and cloudy, which causes the distortion that makes things seem blurry or less defined. These visual changes, at least at the beginning, can be corrected by an adjustment in your prescription for glasses or contacts.

2. Sensitivity to Light and Glare

Increased sensitivity to light and glare is another sign of cataracts. You can manage this by avoiding bright sunlight and wearing polarized sunglasses or a wide-brimmed hat if you do go outside on a sunny day. You may also be bothered by headlights from oncoming cars, which may make it difficult for you to drive at night.

Have a friend drive you at night if you have to, as nighttime driving with impaired vision is extremely dangerous. Light glares or halos often appear around headlights or other lights. If you are seeing these, it’s probably time to see your eye doctor; in the meantime, avoid driving yourself at night.

3. Difficulty Reading in Low-Light Conditions

Low or dim lighting conditions often make it difficult to read or decipher details while performing tasks. Use more light sources or use stronger light bulbs to improve your vision. When reading, you may want to use supplemental light, like an adjustable desk lamp or clip-on book light.

4. Difficulty Seeing Up Close

If you’re having a hard time seeing things clearly up close, you may want to use a handheld magnifying glass so you can see small objects or printed material better. Another tip is to increase the font size on your tablet or other reading device.

5. Difficulty Seeing at Night

Limit nighttime driving if you find it difficult to see when it is dark out, which could put your safety and others’ safety at risk. Indoors, you can increase light in your home or workplace after the sun sets.

6. Seeing Dull Colors

Cataracts can make normally bright colors appear dull or yellow instead. Does it seem as though you’re viewing the world through a dirty window? Is your vision getting worse and you can’t carry out normal tasks as well as you used to? If the colors you see aren’t as bright and crisp as they usually are, you may have cataracts.

7. Seeing Double

Cataracts often make you see double images, which can make it challenging to perform everyday activities accurately or safely.

While cataracts cannot be reversed and surgery is the only way to remove them, there are some things you can do to ensure you care for your overall health. The top risk factors for cataracts are having diabetes and eye conditions such as glaucoma. Manage these conditions as best you can to avoid worsening or early-onset cataracts.

Book Your Cataract Surgery Consultation With Broberg Eye Care

Not sure if you have cataracts? Schedule an appointment for a consultation at (512) 447-6096. Our doctors can run some tests and make a determination, providing you with follow-up tips and what to expect with cataract surgery. You don’t have to live with fading vision!