Did you know that over 400,000 cataract surgeries are performed in the United States every year? Cataracts are often referred to as “age-related cataracts” due to the prevalence of the condition in those 80 and over. By this time, nearly half of all Americans will either have cataracts or have already had cataract surgery to correct their vision.
Cataracts cannot be prevented, but the condition can be treated during the early stages with corrective lenses, and cataract surgery when cataracts begin causing vision loss. Read on to learn seven signs that could indicate you or a loved one should schedule a consultation with a qualified cataract surgeon at Stahl Eyecare!
1. Blurry Vision
A cataract is a build up of proteins that gradually grows over the lens, resulting in blurry vision, and if left untreated, eventual vision loss. People can start to develop cataracts as early as their 40’s, but symptoms are typically too minor to even be noticed. Note that once your cataracts have grown to the point of causing heavy blurring, the use of corrective lenses will no longer serve as an effective treatment option.
2. Perception Of Color Changes
As cataracts advance, the formerly clear lens of the eye begins to take on a yellowish or brownish hue, causing entering light to be perceived differently. You may lose the ability to distinguish between purple, blue, and black, for example. A qualified cataract surgeon can help you regain clear vision once more.
3. Double Vision
Double vision in one eye is a common early symptom of cataracts. Although there are several eye conditions that cause double vision, cataracts are the only one known to cause this symptom in just one eye and not both. Be sure to schedule an appointment with Stahl Eyecare Experts to have your eyes evaluated if you are experiencing double vision in one eye.
4. Difficulty Seeing Details
As your cataracts progress, one symptom to watch out for is difficulty seeing details. This becomes most apparent when you try to make out the expression on someone else’s face. You may be able to make out their general shape and outline, but the fine details are blurred out of the picture.
5. Reduction Of Vision While Driving At Night
Low light situations can be difficult for those with cataracts to navigate, particularly at night. It is at this stage that cataracts can become debilitating, and at this point that you should talk to your cataract surgeon about options to regain your vision.
6. Frequently Changing Prescription
If you find that your eyesight is getting worse at an unusual speed requiring stronger and stronger corrective lenses, take it as a warning sign! Call our offices at Stahl Eyecare to schedule a consultation with a cataract surgeon.
7. Light Sensitivity
Bright and harsh lights become a problem for those with cataracts. Driving at night can become dangerous at this point, and trying to watch a movie in a theater can become an uncomfortable experience. Until cataract surgery has been performed and you have received the all clear from your cataract surgeon, it’s best to refrain from these activities.
If you suspect that you may have cataracts, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with one of the talented cataract surgeons at Stahl Eyecare!
