Symptoms of Cataracts

The best way to prevent cataract-related vision loss is to know its symptoms. 

A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye, which is made of water and protein (Source: Mayo Clinic). As we age, the protein in the lens can clump together and blur an area of the lens.

The most common symptoms of this eye disease are:

• Dim, blurry or clouded vision
• Sensitivity to light and glare
• The appearance of “halos” around lights
• Increasing difficulty with night vision
• Fading or yellowing of colors
• Need for brighter light for reading
• Frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescription

You may not notice any changes in your vision when the cataract is small. But as it grows, the cataract will distort more light that passes through the lens. You may gradually notice that it is becoming more challenging to read, drive at night or do activities like sewing.

Staying current with your comprehensive eye exams is the best way to detect cataracts as early as possible. Your doctor will be able to detect the presence of a cataract in an eye exam before you notice a change in your vision. Cataracts are reversible with surgery, so your eye doctor can discuss treatment options with you at your appointment. Stay one step ahead of cataracts by keeping up with your eye exams—and what better way to celebrate Cataract Awareness Month by scheduling an eye exam today?