How To Recognize Symptoms Of Cataracts
Posted by: Eyecare Associates of New Orleans in Eye Health on October 17, 2022
Your eyes are the windows to your soul and the lens of your eye; you use them daily for everything from driving to reading to seeing your loved one’s face. With age, the proteins in your lens can clump and cause things to look blurry, hazy, or less colorful, which are a few recognizable symptoms of cataracts. This is why it is so important not to delay or deny scheduling your eye exam!
Did you know that cataracts are the leading cause of vision impairment, especially in older adults? According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, cataracts affect 24.4 million Americans age 40 and older, or about one in every six people in this age range. By 2050, the number of people in the U.S. with cataracts is expected to double to 50 million.
We also want to mention a few behaviors that can put you at a higher risk of getting a cataract. A few of those behaviors include:
- Smoking
- Too many long periods of fun in the sun without eye protection
- Using steroid medications
- Radiation treatments on your upper body
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it is time to schedule an appointment with us soon.
The World Seems Cloudy
Cataracts start small and, at first, may have a small effect on your vision. Looking at all the things within your beautiful world, your vision may be affected by not seeing clearly, which can hinder your view because it may seem blurry, cloudy, or dim. This effect usually increases over time.
Difficulty Driving At Night
As cataracts advance, it can be hard to distinguish between light and dark. This difficulty can affect your night vision and make specific nighttime activities, such as driving, more complex. If you suspect you have cataracts or feel unsafe driving, talk to a family member or friend to drive instead. Making this choice will keep you and others on the road safe!
Need Stronger and More Light
If you are trying to complete a favorite hobby like reading, painting, or sewing, completing a detail-oriented task may require a stronger light to help focus. Increasing your light might work first, but stronger light won’t help as your cataract grows.
Colors Look Faded
When cataracts mature, seeing your favorite color may look faded or less intense. For example, your comfy cherished white t-shirt or sweater will start looking yellow. Matured cataracts may be brown or yellow, which can cause anything you see to look yellow or brown.
Frequent Prescription Changes
Advancement of cataracts could affect you from seeing distances clearly to needing frequent prescriptions to see a Stop sign. Sudden vision changes could be a sign that you could have cataracts.
Do any of these symptoms seem familiar to you? If so, schedule a cataract evaluation TODAY to discuss your vision changes and any other symptoms you may be experiencing.
Our TOP priority is your lifelong eye health!
References: American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Optometric Association. This blog provides information and discussion about eye health and related subjects. The content provided within this blog and any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered medical advice. If the reader or any person has a medical concern, they should consult with an appropriately licensed physician
