Many older individuals are unaware that they have cataracts, only to realize its presence once their vision becomes highly impaired. Although this eye disease affects millions of Americans above the age of 40, only a few can recognize its early signs. Immediate treatment is essential to stop its progression, so watch out for the symptoms below.

What Causes Cataracts?

Cataracts form when there’s protein buildup in the lenses of the eyes, hardening and turning opaque eventually. They prevent the light from passing through with ease, which affects the eyesight. While painless, they can lead to blindness when left untreated.

There’s no exact cause for cataracts, except that they’re often found in older adults. They can stem as secondary illnesses from medical conditions such as diabetes or as side-effects from exposure to UV light, radiation, and toxic substances. You may be at risk as well if you drink, smoke, or sustained an injury to the eye. 

What Are the Symptoms?

Even in their early stages, cataracts can already impact the eyesight. See an eye doctor right away when you encounter any of these signs.

• Blurry Vision: With less light entering the retina, the image created looks blurry, cloudy, or fuzzy. If you can’t see items clearly, even at short distances, you may have a cataract.
• Light Sensitivity: People with cataracts tend to be more sensitive to bright lights, seeing halos around light-emitting objects. The cataract diffracts entering light, producing glare or ringlets that can cause you to squint or have sudden headaches from bright flashes.     
• Poor Night Sight: Cataracts form a filter that makes everything you see as dimmer or darker. Combined with increased light sensitivity, you will find it more challenging to navigate at night.   
• Color Changes: A cataract gives your eyes a yellowish or brownish tint from the protein buildup. It affects how you see colors, too, making it harder to identify different hues.
• Seeing Double: Known as diplopia, double vision in affected eyes is another sign. The images appear in twos or overlapping because of unfocused light reaching the retina due to cataracts.

If you’ve experienced any of the symptoms above, visit Eric G. Stocker, OD. As the trusted eye doctor in Amherst, OH, he offers a variety of comprehensive eye exams for the correct diagnosis of cataracts, glaucoma, and other eye diseases throughout Lorain County. Call (440) 988-4419 to set an appointment with an optometrist or view a full list of screening services online.