Cataract Symptoms

In the United States alone, over 20 million adults over the age of 40 have cataracts. Cataracts occur when protein builds up on the crystalline lens of the eye, causing blurred vision that worsens with time. Because most cataracts progress slowly, it may be years or months before individuals notice symptoms.

Fortunately, cataract surgery is considered one of the safest, most commonly performed medical procedures in the U.S., with approximately 98% of patients reporting positive results. When cataract symptoms do occur, be sure to notify a qualified ophthalmologist who will guide you in pursuing treatment.

Signs of Cataracts

The following cataract symptoms may indicate the presence of this common eye disease:

• Blurred vision: As the eye's natural lens becomes progressively more clouded, light is refracted, so a clear image doesn't reach the retina. Individuals with cataracts may feel as though they constantly need to rub their eyes to clear them, or may be frustrated that even stronger glasses and contact lens prescriptions aren't able to restore visual acuity.
• Changed color perception: As cataracts obscure more of a person's lens, they may experience decreased ability to see colors on the "blue" end of the spectrum. As a result, colors may seem dull or washed out, or may take on a yellowish appearance. Many patients who receive cataract surgery are surprised at how vivid colors appear following the procedure.
  
• Frequent increases in eyeglass or contact lens prescriptions: If cataracts have not yet been diagnosed by an ophthalmologist, patients may be given increasingly higher glasses or contact lens prescriptions in an effort to counteract the progressive decrease in visual acuity. However, because cataracts involve the physical clouding of the lens, a more powerful prescription will be unable to restore clear vision.
• Poor night vision: Because cataracts cause less light to reach the retina, vision is especially impaired in dim lighting. Driving at night may become especially difficult, especially when combined with glare from the headlights of other cars.
• Halos or glare around lights: The light distortion resulting from a clouded lens often results in halos or glares around light sources, such as lamps, headlights, or traffic lights. Individuals may also notice increased light sensitivity.
• A white or "milky" spot over the pupil of the eye: In some cases, especially at certain angles or under good lighting, a white spot can be detected on the pupil of the eye. 

Seeking Treatment

When symptoms occur, it is important for individuals to make an appointment with a qualified ophthalmologist. He or she will conduct a thorough eye examination, make an accurate diagnosis, and review treatment options with the patient. An ophthalmologist may recommend surgery to remove a cataract if the condition interferes with normal daily activities such as reading, viewing a computer screen, or driving. Though not all patients require it, cataract surgery provides a relatively safe and effective option for many people with cataract symptoms such as cloudy, blurry, or foggy vision.

Contact an Ophthalmologist

If you are experiencing cataract symptoms, it is important to have the health of your eyes evaluated by a medical professional. DocShop can help you locate an experienced ophthalmologist in your area today, so you can receive an accurate diagnosis and begin treatment.

Image source: Blurry vision

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