Cataracts are a leading cause of vision problems across the globe. However, though common, they’re also highly treatable—as long as you address the problem quickly. Recognizing the early signs of cataracts is the easiest way to preserve your sight.
Typically, the first signs of cataracts include:
- Cloudy or blurry vision
- Faded or dull colour vision
- Poor vision in low-light
If you notice these signs, it’s time to visit your optometrist to examine the cause and discuss treatment.
What Are Cataracts?
Inside your eye, you have a small natural lens just behind the pupil. This is like the lens of a camera—it’s clear and helps your eye properly focus light.
However, over the years, this lens become less clear and flexible. This clouding of the lens is called a cataract, which, when left untreated, can lead to other vision problems.
What Causes Cataracts?
Cataracts typically develop as a result of aging. Proteins in the eye’s lens begin to break down and clump together, clouding the lens and obstructing light.
Age-related cataracts are the most common type, but other factors can also cause cataracts to develop:
- Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can damage the cells in your eyes and lead to cataracts forming.
- Smoke and other pollutants can also damage the cells in your eye’s lens and lead to a cataract.
- A family history of cataracts can increase your risk of developing cataracts.
- Prior eye injuries or surgeries can lead to cataracts forming.
- Other eye diseases and health problems like diabetes can also increase your risk of developing cataracts.
- Certain medications are also known to increase the risk of cataract formation.
It’s crucial to recognize the earliest signs of cataracts. This condition is progressive, and your symptoms will likely worsen over time.
Cataracts: The Early Signs & Symptoms
Early detection is key to preserving your vision. Typically, you can recognize that cataracts are beginning to form by a cloudy or hazy spot in your vision. It may appear as if there’s constantly a small wisp of fog somewhere in your field of view.
You also may experience:
- Difficulty reading small print
- Double vision or ghost images
- Increased sensitivity to glare
- Frequent changes in prescription glasses or contact lenses
- A noticeable yellowing or fading of colours
- Trouble seeing at night
If you notice any of these symptoms, a comprehensive eye exam can identify the underlying cause. Whether your eye doctor detects a cataract or something else, they can suggest appropriate treatment methods. It’s important to take note of any changes in your vision to maintain your eye health.
Can Cataracts Cause Blindness?
Cataracts aren’t just a short-term problem. If left untreated, the lens can become so cloudy that it obstructs all light from reaching the retina. This can result in severe vision loss and even blindness. This is why early intervention is so crucial.
How to Treat Cataracts
Fortunately, cataracts are treatable. In the earliest stages, you can effectively manage the side effects by:
- Using brighter lights when you need to focus on nearby tasks
- Using anti-glare glasses, particularly when outside
- Using prescription lenses when focusing on reading and other nearby activities
However, remember that cataracts are progressive and will worsen if you don’t visit your optometrist. If your cataracts are starting to interfere with your everyday vision, it might be time to think about cataract surgery.
What to Expect from Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is the only and most effective way to treat cataracts. During this surgery, a trained surgeon will remove your clouded lens and replace it with a clear, artificial intraocular lens (IOL).
It all starts with visiting your optometrist. They’ll take the time to properly diagnose whether cataracts are causing your vision troubles, and they will likely refer you to an experienced surgeon in your area.
On the day of the surgery, you can expect:
- A pre-operative assessment to ensure you’re ready for the procedure.
- Local anesthesia application, meaning you’ll be awake but won’t feel pain.
- The surgeon will make a small incision in your eye to access the clouded lens.
- Using ultrasound waves, the surgeon will break up the cataract, making it easier to remove.
- After removing the cloudy lens, the surgeon will carefully place the artificial intraocular lens (IOL) into your eye.
The incision is self-healing, so once the new lens is installed, you won’t require any stitches. The entire process can take 30-45 minutes or longer, depending on your condition. You may experience some light sensitivity or gritty sensations for a few days after the surgery. These symptoms aren’t long-lasting, so you should notice improvements in your vision quickly.
Make sure to follow all the care instructions your surgeon provides. If you notice any significant discomfort or pain in the days after your surgery, visit your optometrist to receive personalized advice to promote a swifter recovery.
Trust Us With Your Vision
Your vision is essential, and early detection of cataracts can make all the difference. At Trinity Hills Eyecare, we’re committed to providing comprehensive eye care to ensure your vision remains clear and healthy. If you’re noticing the signs of cataracts, or dealing with any other vision trouble, book an appointment with our team.
