Cataract Symptoms That Tell You It’s Time for Surgery

ataracts are a common eye condition that predominantly affects those aged 60 and above, leading to a gradual clouding of the lens in the eye. While cataracts develop slowly, they eventually impede vision and can significantly impact your quality of life. At Schwartz Laser Eye Center, our talented eye doctors with decades of combined cataract experience want to help patients recognize the critical signs indicating that it might be time to consider cataract surgery. Understanding these symptoms can ensure timely intervention, which is crucial for restoring and maintaining clear vision.

Key Symptoms Indicating the Need for Cataract Surgery

Blurred Vision

One of the earliest signs of cataracts is a noticeable blurring of vision. This isn’t the typical blurriness that can be corrected with glasses; it’s as if you’re looking through a foggy window. When this symptom interferes with your daily activities, such as reading or driving, it may be time to discuss surgical options with your eye care professional.

Increased Difficulty with Night Vision

As cataracts progress, they can cause your vision to dim, making it increasingly difficult to see in low-light conditions. If you find yourself struggling to see or drive at night, or if headlights and streetlights begin to appear more haloed or blurred, these are significant indicators that your cataracts are advancing.

Sensitivity to Light and Glare

An intensified sensitivity to light and glare is another common symptom of developing cataracts. You might notice that sunlight or bright indoor lights feel overwhelmingly bright or cause significant discomfort. This can also manifest as a glare around lights, which can make driving especially challenging.

Seeing ‘Halos’ Around Lights

Halos around lights are a classic sign of cataracts. This effect can make it difficult to focus on objects and can be particularly disruptive in environments with contrasting light conditions.

Frequent Changes in Eyeglass Prescription

If you find yourself needing frequent updates to your eyeglass prescription, it could be a sign that your cataracts are worsening. A rapid change in vision clarity is often related to the lens of the eye becoming increasingly clouded.

Fading or Yellowing of Colors

Cataracts can also alter the way you see colors. Over time, you may notice that colors appear faded, less vibrant, or have a yellowish tinge. This occurs because the clouded lens acts as a filter, diminishing the intensity and purity of colors you see.

Why Consider Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery involves the removal of the clouded lens and its replacement with a clear artificial lens. This procedure is one of the safest and most effective surgeries, with a high success rate in restoring vision. Better yet, you do not need to wait until your vision is bad to have cataract surgery since replacing your natural lenses prevents cataracts from progressing or redeveloping.

The best way to know for sure when it is time for cataract surgery is to schedule routine comprehensive eye exams that can assess the quality of your sight. At Schwartz Laser Eye Center, we are committed to providing comprehensive eye care and guiding our patients through the decision-making process for cataract surgery. To schedule an eye exam or a consultation for cataract surgery, please call 1-888-553-3937.