The Hidden Signs of Cataracts (And What to Do Next)
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Cataracts can often sneak up on you. Lots of people don’t even realise they’re developing cataracts because the symptoms are so subtle at first. But it’s important to know the signs, as catching them early can make a big difference.
Cataracts are a common eye condition where the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy. This clouded lens affects your ability to see clearly. If you don't treat it, it can eventually lead to vision loss. So, early detection is key! Cataract treatment, like cataract surgery, can help you regain clear sight and improve your quality of life.
At Re:vision, we've helped countless Kiwis diagnose and treat cataracts. In this article, we share information to help you spot the signs and know what to do next.
The Hidden Signs of Cataracts
Not all cataract symptoms are obvious. Often, they can just feel like normal changes in vision. However, some of these vision changes, subtle or not, could mean that you're dealing with age-related or even congenital cataracts.
Cloudy or Blurred Vision
If your vision feels a bit like looking through foggy glasses, it could indicate cataract formation. With a clouded lens, general everyday tasks like reading, driving, or recognising familiar faces can become increasingly challenging.
Initially, you might notice only slight blurry vision, but as the cataract develops, it can seriously impact your ability to focus on details. This issue is particularly common with posterior subcapsular cataracts, which affect the back of the lens, and cortical cataracts, which form in the outer edges of the lens and work their way inward.
Increased Sensitivity to Light and Glare
If you're struggling with bright light more than usual, it could be a sign of cataract formation. Cataracts scatter incoming light, which can cause discomfort and sensitivity. You're likely to be especially aware of this symptom when driving at night, where oncoming headlights can feel blinding.
Those with posterior subcapsular cataracts often notice these symptoms earlier, as this type of cataract has a direct effect on how light enters the eye.
Fading or Yellowing of Colours
When colours don't appear as vibrant as they used to, you may be developing cataracts. For instance, reds, blues, and greens might look dull and crisp whites may appear yellowish. Over time, age-related cataracts can filter out blue light, leaving colours muted or distorted.
This change often creeps up slowly, so it’s easy to consider it a figment of your imagination until it becomes starkly evident.
Halos Around Lights
Seeing glowing rings or halos around light sources like streetlights or car headlights can be a clear sign of cataract formation. Because clouded lenses scatter light, they can create that ring-like effect.
Seeing halos around light sources can make even the simplest of evening outings challenging.
Frequent Changes in Eyewear Prescriptions
If you find yourself frequently visiting your optometrist because your glasses or contacts don't seem to work as well, this could be a cataract red flag. Regularly updating your prescription, to no avail, is a classic sign of the onset of cataracts.
Cataracts cause fluctuating vision. So, they make it hard for corrective lenses to keep up. Even the fanciest, most advanced glasses or contacts can’t compensate for the vision problems a clouded lens causes.
What to Do Next
The earlier you take action, the better chance you have of preserving your vision and enjoying a better quality of life. If you’ve noticed any of the above symptoms of cataracts, don’t wait. Here's what to do next:
Step 1: Get a Professional Eye Exam
The first step is to schedule an appointment with a trusted eye doctor. During your appointment, they’ll conduct a thorough eye examination. This can help them determine if you have cataracts, and if so, how severe they are.
Step 2: Explore Treatment Options
If you have cataracts, your eye doctor will explore various treatment options with you. If your cataracts are impacting your ability to carry out your daily activities, they'll probably suggest cataract surgery. This is a highly effective procedure that involves removing the clouded natural lens and replacing it with an artificial lens implant, also known as an intraocular lens.
Modern cataract surgery is quick, safe, and reliable. It's usually performed as an outpatient procedure. In some instances, your eye doctor may start your treatment with prescription eye drops. Though for most patients, surgery offers the best and most long-lasting solution.
Step 3: Plan for Life After Cataract Surgery
If cataract surgery is what your eye doctor recommends, they'll walk you through the process, the recovery period, and what to expect over the longer term. For the best results and most seamless recovery, it's important that you follow their instructions to the tee! For instance, they might have you use prescription eye drops post-surgery to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
Attending all follow-up appointments is also key. These appointments are vital for your eye doctor to monitor your healing effectively and make sure that the artificial lens implant is doing its job.
Trusted Cataract Surgery in Auckland
Cataracts can sound pretty overwhelming. But it's not all doom and gloom! They're completely treatable. However, even if you're only experiencing slight cataract symptoms, taking action early is key.
As one of Auckland's leading eye surgery clinics, we're proud to provide expert care and advanced cataract surgery to help you see the world clearly again. We have a team of friendly, experienced eye surgeons who’ll guide you, every step of the way, from diagnosis to post-surgery recovery.
If you're ready to take the first big step towards brighter and sharper vision, get in touch with us. Your eyes deserve only the best care, and we're here to deliver it!
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