Early Signs of Cataracts

Cataracts are cloudy areas in the clear part of the eye, called the lens, that help focus light. As people age, cataracts become common and can impact a person’s eyesight. For instance, if a cataract is not treated, it can cause your vision to be hazy, blurry, or less colorful. If this occurs, everyday activities can be impacted, such as reading, driving, or watching television. At first, mild symptoms can develop, such as seeing double or not seeing as well at night.

To prevent vision loss and other effects caused by cataracts, cataract surgery may be necessary. Thankfully, cataract surgery is a safe option that can correct vision problems and remove cataracts. During the surgery, the clouded lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens known as an intraocular lens.

The Causes of Cataracts

Cataracts develop normally as people age. In a person’s younger years, the lens in the eye is clear. As people get older, typically around the age of 40, proteins in the lens of the eye not only break down, but clump together. Once combined, the clump produces a cloudy area on the lens. Over time, cataracts can worsen, turning your lens yellow or brown and distorting vision.

Although the natural aging process can cause cataracts, there are a variety of other factors that can make developing cataracts more likely. For instance, those with diabetes, glaucoma, or another eye condition, or a family history of cataracts may be more susceptible to developing cataracts. Additionally, those who smoke, drink large amounts of alcohol, or spend too much time in the sun may experience faster creation of cataracts.

Symptoms of Cataracts

According to the National Eye Institute, some individuals may not develop any symptoms of cataracts at first. In fact, some symptoms may be so mild that they are unrecognizable. As cataracts grow, vision changes can develop.

Discovering cataracts early can help prevent symptoms from worsening. Those with cataracts may notice early signs such as:

• Cloudy vision

• Blurry vision

• Sunlight, headlights, or lamps seem too bright.

• Seeing double

• Colors look faded

• Reduced night vision

• Appearance of a  halo around lights

• Changing prescription for glasses or contact lenses often

If you notice any of the above, consider finding a doctor to learn more about your condition and the severity of your cataracts.  

How to Prevent Cataracts

There are several ways to prevent cataracts. Although cataracts can occur naturally as we age, it is possible to slow the process by practicing the following positive habits:

• Protecting your eyes from the sun by wearing sunglasses or a hat.

• Protecting your eyes from injuries by wearing protective eyewear while taking part in activities such as certain sports or woodworking.

• Quitting smoking, which offers a range of benefits for your circulatory system and can protect your eyes as well.

• Choosing healthy food options including fruits, whole grains, vegetables, leafy greens, and nuts.

If you take the time to protect your eyesight while outdoors and implement the above lifestyle changes, you can reduce your chance of developing cataracts or, if cataracts do develop, they may not be as severe as in those who do not take action to protect themselves.  

Find Treatment

At Aloha Eye, we tailor our care for each individual. For those with cataracts, we offer cataract surgery. Once cataracts are removed, you may notice positive changes in your vision. Our experts have a long history of providing cataract surgery.

Consider our eye care clinic for all of your eye care needs. Contact us today to learn more about cataract surgery, treatment, and the aftercare process. Schedule a consultation to speak with one of our professionals.