Did you know that vision impairment is largely caused by cataracts? In fact, this eye condition affects millions of adults over the age of 40 every year. The good news is that when caught early, it can be slowed or even prevented. But if left ignored, it can also worsen over time and eventually lead to blindness. Cataracts form as the clear lens within our eye hardens and deteriorates, leaving behind blurry, dull vision that can make it difficult to see, especially at night. This can occur in one eye or both. If you’re concerned about your vision, here are 5 signs that you may be developing cataracts. If you have one or a few of these signs, it’s time to get your eyes tested.

What Causes Cataracts?

Although cataracts can begin to develop as our eyes age, other factors at work may cause them to develop rapidly. These include, but are not limited to:

  • Genetics: A history of cataracts in the family could increase the likelihood of it passing down. 
  • Diabetes: High blood sugar from diabetes can change the structure of your eye, speeding up the development of cataracts.
  • Smoking: Can cause changes to your eyes that can impair your vision.
  • Alcohol: Consuming alcohol periodically shouldn’t directly cause any adverse side effects. However, drinking heavily can increase the risk of age-related cataracts.

Signs of Cataracts

1. Unclear, Cloudy Vision

Blurred, dull, and cloudy areas of vision are the main characteristics to look out for. These are the most common signs of cataracts, but they can be difficult to detect, especially early on. If you notice consistent cloudy spots when looking around, it might be time to have your eyes examined.

2. Night Vision is Impaired

Do you find it difficult to see properly at night? This could be a sign of cataracts too. In addition to blurred vision, cataracts can gradually dim your vision, making it particularly hard to see objects clearly in dark environments.

3. Your Eyes are Sensitive to Light

A keen sensitivity to light can also be a telltale sign of this common eye condition. For those who feel the need to squint intensely during brightly lit environments on a frequent basis, you should talk to your doctor as it could indicate an underlying problem.  

4. You Experience Sudden Headaches in Bright Environments

Oversensitivity to light can also lead to sudden headaches. Taking medication might dull the pain, but if this pattern persists regularly when exposed to bright lights, don’t ignore it.

5. There’s a Noticeable Glare 

Since the lens of the eye gradually deteriorates with cataracts, it can start to refract light as it enters the lens. This can produce a glare or halo-like ring across your field of vision. Though you might not pay much notice during the daytime, it may become obvious in darker environments. Take note if you do see a glare and make an appointment to have it looked at.

Identifying Types of Cataracts

Having cataracts is a general condition that branches off into several “types” of cataracts. Knowing which kind you have is critical, as this can help with treatment methods and understanding the progression of the disease.

Nuclear

Nuclear cataracts affect the centre of your lens. They cause objects far away to appear blurry, while closer objects look normal for a short time. With nuclear cataracts, your lens could slowly worsen your vision and change to a yellow or brown shade, resulting in difficulty in seeing colours. 

Cortical

Cortical cataracts affect the edge of your lenses. They start by turning white, and small circular spots form around them. As the cataract worsens, the shapes and streaks grow around your lenses, preventing light from properly entering your eyes and blurring your vision.

Subcapsular

Posterior subcapsular cataracts begin forming at the back of the lens, blocking the path where light enters the eye. This type of cataract can affect your reading, make it more challenging to see in a brighter environment and cause glare when there’s light at night or in a dark space. It’s worth noting that this type of cataract progresses more quickly than others.

Congenital

Congenital cataracts develop due to genetics. People could be born with cataracts this way or develop them during childhood. They may also come from infection or trauma while in the womb.

How to Treat Cataracts

Cataracts can typically be treated with surgery. However, before jumping to this option, there are several preventative measures you can take. They include:

  • Sunglasses: To protect your eyes on extra sunny days.
  • Stop smoking: Smoking can accelerate the development of cataracts.
  • Limit alcohol: Avoid over-drinking as it can speed up the development of cataracts.
  • Manage health: Many different health concerns could lead to cataracts, like diabetes or myotonic dystrophy.
  • Healthy diet: A healthy diet filled with fruits and vegetables provides antioxidants to maintain eye health.

Regular eye check-ups: See your optometrist every one to two years or take preventative measures if any symptoms arise.

Get Your Eyes Tested

Since cataracts can develop very slowly and go undetected, it is imperative to pay a regular visit to your eye doctor and let them know about any potential signs that you notice, even if they appear minor. This is especially important if you have a history of cataracts in your family.

Cataracts are treatable and even preventable when caught early. But they can also lead to blindness when the symptoms are ignored. Come Laurier Optical today to get your eyes tested.