Cataracts are one of the leading causes of vision loss among adults. This is why EyeSite of The Villages is committed to spreading awareness about the condition. By being able to identify common symptoms, you can take control of your own visual health and seek care more promptly. Read on as your expert cataract and glaucoma doctor discusses six common cataract symptoms.
1. Cloudy or Hazy Vision
Cataracts develop when your lens tissues and proteins start to disintegrate—a common part of the aging process. These protein fragments may deposit on your lenses’ surface and restrict light entry. You may experience cloudy or hazy vision when this happens, similar to looking through a dusty window.
2. Blurry Eyesight
According to your reliable cataract doctor, your lenses may start to become rigid over time, reducing their ability to accommodate light entry. As a result, less light reaches your retina, resulting in blurry eyesight.
3. Increased Glare Sensitivity and Halos in Your Visual Field
Heightened sensitivity to bright lights and glare is another hallmark symptom of cataracts. Since your eyes cannot accommodate as much light, they may be overwhelmed with intense and high levels of light rays. You may also see halos around light sources, making it hard for you to perform daily tasks.
4. Poor Night Vision
As the condition progresses, cataracts may turn a yellow or brown hue, which may impair your retina’s color recognition abilities. You may have a hard time distinguishing purples and blues. You may also have difficulties seeing in low-lit circumstances, which is why your trusted cataract doctor generally advises against driving at night.
5. Double Trouble
Cloudy lenses may cause erratic light diffractions, resulting in double vision. Unlike diplopia, this symptom is apparent even if you have just one eye open. This may put you at a higher risk of falls and accidents.
6. Frequent Lens Prescription Changes and Second Sight
Cataracts may act as a lens substitute, letting you see clearly for some time. This phenomenon is often referred to as “second sight.” That said, these effects are only temporary. Keep in mind that cataracts are progressive, and can cause abrupt visual acuity changes.
If you experience any of these symptoms, call us at (352) 504-4560 to request an appointment. We serve Oxford and Lady Lake, FL.
