What Are the First Signs of Cataracts to Look For?

Cataracts can be a concern for people as they age because of the threat of blurry vision and blindness. There are many other vision problems that can accompany cataracts, but our experts at inVision Ophthalmology Tuscaloosa recommend that you schedule a visit with us if you start to notice any of the first signs of cataracts. Through cataract surgeries, we can help reduce the severity of the problem and prevent your symptoms from worsening.

Here are a few warning signs that you may be developing cataracts:

Cloudy vision

You may experience cloudy vision when you first experience cataracts. The cloudiness can cause things to be harder to see from any distance and becomes worse when the cataract spreads over the lens.

Struggles with light vision

You may also have a tough time seeing things in various light conditions when you first have cataracts. Some lights might look too bright and they can give off a glare or halo effect. This becomes more intense as the light naturally becomes brighter. Artificial lights are more likely to trigger this problem, but even natural sunlight and the glares that come from the sun could also be an issue.

Blindness in dark conditions

While healthy eyes can distinguish various things in dark conditions, you may struggle to see things in the dark if you have cataracts. The blurriness that accompanies cataracts can lead to an inability to separate shapes and objects when there isn’t enough light in a space.

Faded colors

Your eye may also struggle to distinguish colors. Sometimes, the cataract will spread over more parts of the lens to where the cones and rods that identify colors may have to work harder to identify these tones. You may not identify all the colors in a spot, or the colors may blend with one another. The problem makes it harder for you to see colors accurately, plus the issue can make the blurriness from the cataract worse. The issue is especially concerning when you are driving, as you might struggle to identify what a traffic light shows.

Distorted vision

Distorted vision is a common concern our experts at inVision Ophthalmology Tuscaloosa often find in patients with cataracts. The condition occurs when the borders of objects in your sight are bent or curved. Random items will look unusual or otherwise hard to distinguish.

Nearsightedness

Nearsightedness is common among patients with cataracts. People who are already nearsighted will see their conditions become worse. Some people may require a stronger prescription eyeglass lens, but that may not be necessary if the cataract is treated soon enough. The new prescription can improve how well you see things, but it won’t correct the blurriness that can accompany a cataract if it becomes worse. Proper treatment is necessary because it can save you the trouble of having to find a new prescription for your eyeglasses.

Contact us today for help managing your cataracts in Tuscaloosa

Cataracts can be worrisome, but you can keep them under control if you spot them soon enough and request help. Our team at inVision Ophthalmology Tuscaloosa will help you identify your cataracts and plan a suitable treatment approach that works for you. Visit us online to schedule an appointment for an exam in Tuscaloosa, AL. We can identify the problem and relieve your issue before your cataract can become worse.