Cataract is one of the most frequent vision disorders, especially as people get older. They happen when the lens of the eye becomes opaque making vision blurred to the point of interfering with daily activities. It is very important to take action as soon as possible after the first symptoms appear in order to save your vision and maintain your ability to see. This guide is useful if you are developing symptoms that might indicate the need to see an eye specialist and to understand when to seek cataract surgery.
What Are Cataracts?
Cataracts are formed when the proteins of the lenses in the eyes degrade and form a cloudy substance. This condition can cause blurred vision and if not treated can cause blindness. The main causes of cataracts are ageing, diabetes, excessive exposure to UV radiation, smoking and heredity. Cataracts are not restricted to older people; they can develop at any age due to physical injury, certain medications, or diseases.
Early Signs of Cataracts
Cataracts are normally formed over time and therefore the first signs of cataracts may not be very noticeable. Here are some signs to watch out for:
- Cloudy or Blurry Vision
What you see may look somewhat blurry, like you’re looking through a sheet of thick glass. This blurriness might only increase with time - Difficulty Seeing at Night
A progressive loss of vision, especially in low light conditions, is one of the early symptoms. You may also experience problems in driving at night or in areas with poor lighting conditions. - Increased Sensitivity to Glare
Light can be too intense; it becomes uncomfortable to drive during the day or at night. - Faded or Yellowish Colours
Colours may appear less saturated, making the world seem less colourful than it used to be. - Double Vision in One Eye
Seeing multiple images in one eye is a less frequent but rather important sign of the disease at the early stages
Progression of Cataracts: When Symptoms Worsen
In intermediate and final stages, the manifestations of cataracts worsen and affect the patient’s functioning significantly. You may experience:
- Frequent Prescription Changes
You may require new spectacles or new contact lenses more frequently, but the changes do not offer much enhancement. - Difficulty Reading or Performing Close-Up Tasks
It can be more difficult to read, sew, or even use a smartphone or any other device. - Struggles with Driving
Headlights or blurry vision can cause a lot of harm as one is driving. - Reduced Independence
It is less easy to recognize faces or go through the motions of getting from one room to another.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms you should seek the services of an eye specialist.
When to Consult an Eye Specialist
Eye examinations should be done at least once a year, more frequently if one is over 60 years or has other risk factors for cataracts. You should consult an eye specialist immediately if you notice:
- Vision alterations that impact on your daily life.
- Soreness or swelling of the eyes, which may lead to vision problems, especially in the dark.
- Recurrent visits to your eye doctor for a change in glasses or contact lens power and no correction.
A competent specialist of an Eye Hospital in Coimbatore, such as The Eye Foundation, can evaluate the patient for cataracts and recommend a suitable course of action.
Understanding Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is among the safest and most effective of surgical procedures. It entails replacing the hazy lens with an artificial one. Laser assisted methods and premium lens choices have made cataract surgery faster, less invasive and more comfortable than before. The majority of patients get a dramatic improvement of their vision within days of the surgery.
Benefits of Early Cataract Surgery
If you wait to have the cataract surgery, you are likely to experience a worse vision, which is not good for your health. Early surgery offers several benefits, including:
- Improved Vision: Better vision lets you see well in your day-to-day tasks and leisure time interests without any strain.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Get your independence and self-assertiveness back in performing routine tasks.
- Reduced Risk of Falls and Accidents: Improved sight reduces the risk of accidents resulting from bad sight.
Preparing for an Eye Specialist Consultation
List your complaints and queries to make sure you do not forget them when the consultant is around. The specialist will perform several tests to determine the severity of your cataracts and your overall eye condition. In the case of surgery, they will discuss the operation, possible results and course of healing.
Why Timely Action Matters
It is important not to pay attention to the symptoms of cataract as they can worsen, and the quality of life decreases. Cataracts are easily identifiable through eye exams and therefore early treatment can be made. Consulting an Eye Hospital in Coimbatore guarantees you get the best care that meets your needs.
Cataracts are a problem for the eyes and general health but this does not have to be the case. This is why, if you are able to recognize the symptoms early enough, you should consult an eye specialist so that you can start the right procedure for the treatment. Cataract is a common eye ailment that can be treated through a surgery which is safe and brings back the vision
If you are having any of these signs of cataracts, do not hesitate to seek help. Consult The Eye Foundation for an eye checkup and other eye related ailments. Don’t wait for your vision to worsen any further, schedule your appointment with us today!