Understanding Cataracts: Signs and Symptoms as You Age

Cataracts, though common among older adults, are often misunderstood or overlooked. Let’s delve into what cataracts are, their impact, and crucial signs to recognize as we age.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology defines cataracts as “when your eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy.” A cataract refers to a clouding of the lens in the eye, leading to blurred vision. The lens, which is typically clear, becomes cloudy over time due to changes in the proteins within the eye. This cloudiness impairs vision, making everyday activities like reading, driving, or recognizing faces challenging.

The symptoms of cataracts can develop gradually and may not be immediately noticeable. However, as cataracts progress, certain signs become more apparent. Here are key symptoms to be aware of:

1. Blurry or Cloudy Vision: One of the earliest signs of cataracts is a gradual decline in vision quality. Objects may appear blurry or hazy, as if you’re looking through a foggy window.
2. Sensitivity to Light and Glare: Cataracts can cause increased sensitivity to light, making bright lights uncomfortable or causing halos to appear around light sources, particularly at night.
3. Difficulty Seeing at Night: Night vision often becomes problematic with cataracts. Tasks like driving in low light conditions may become challenging due to glare and reduced clarity.
4. Frequent Changes in Eyeglass Prescription: If you find that your eyeglass prescription needs frequent adjustments but your vision doesn’t seem to improve significantly, it could be a sign of cataracts.
5. Colors Appearing Faded or Yellowed: Cataracts can alter how you perceive colors. Colors may seem less vibrant or have a yellowish tinge.
6. Double Vision in One Eye: Cataracts can sometimes cause double vision in one eye, which may clear up when you close the other eye.
7. Difficulty with Reading and Near Activities: As the cataract progresses, focusing on close-up tasks like reading becomes more challenging.

Age is the primary risk factor for developing cataracts, with most cases occurring in individuals over 60. Other risk factors include diabetes, excessive sunlight exposure, smoking, and certain medications like corticosteroids.

While cataracts cannot be entirely prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk or delay their onset:

• Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays: Wear sunglasses that block UV rays when outdoors.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking is linked to an increased risk of cataracts.
• Manage Chronic Health Conditions: Keep conditions like diabetes under control to reduce the risk of eye complications.
• Attend Regular Eye Exams: Routine eye exams can detect cataracts early, allowing for timely treatment.

When cataracts start affecting daily life significantly, surgical intervention becomes necessary. Cataract surgery is a safe and effective procedure where the clouded lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens. This surgery is one of the most common and successful medical procedures performed today.

In conclusion, understanding the signs and symptoms of cataracts is crucial for timely diagnosis and intervention. As we age, regular eye check-ups and lifestyle choices play vital roles in maintaining healthy vision. At Ocala Eye, our dedicated team of ophthalmologists provide expert care for cataracts every day. If you or a loved one has questions about cataracts or cataract surgery, we’re here to provide answers and reassurance every step of the way. Remember, cataract surgery is safe, routine, and designed to improve your vision and quality of life.