Signs and Symptoms of Cataracts: How to Recognize Them Early

Cataracts are one of the most common eye conditions affecting millions of people, particularly as they age. A cataract occurs when the lens of your eye becomes cloudy, impacting your vision. Recognizing the signs and symptoms early can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes and maintaining your quality of life. At Battleground Eye Care, we believe in empowering our patients with the knowledge to safeguard their eye health.
 

What Are Cataracts?

Cataracts develop when proteins in the eye's lens break down and clump together, causing the lens to lose its transparency. Over time, this can lead to blurry vision and, if untreated, eventual blindness. While cataracts are often associated with aging, they can also result from trauma, medication use, or certain medical conditions.
 

Early Signs and Symptoms of Cataracts

Cataracts typically develop gradually, making it easy to overlook the early signs. Here’s what to watch for:

• Blurry or Cloudy Vision: One of the earliest and most common symptoms is blurred or hazy vision, as though you're looking through a foggy window.

• Increased Sensitivity to Light: Bright lights or glare from the sun may become uncomfortable or painful to your eyes.

• Difficulty Seeing at Night: Nighttime vision may decline, making it harder to drive or navigate in low-light conditions.

• Halos Around Lights: You may notice halos or rings of light, especially at night.

• Faded or Yellowed Colors: Colors may lose their vibrancy, appearing dull or yellowed.

• Frequent Prescription Changes: If you find yourself needing to update your glasses or contact lens prescription more often than usual, it could be a sign of cataracts.

• Double Vision in One Eye: Cataracts can sometimes cause double vision in the affected eye, even when looking through only one eye.
   

Why Regular Eye Exams Are Crucial

Cataracts often develop slowly and painlessly, making regular eye exams essential for early detection. Comprehensive eye exams allow Dr. Scott to monitor the health of your eyes, identify changes in your vision, and detect cataracts before they significantly impair your quality of life.
 

When detected early, cataracts can often be managed with adjustments to your eyewear prescription. If the condition progresses, timely surgical intervention can restore clear vision. Dr. Scott can also provide advice tailored to your lifestyle and needs, helping you protect your eyes against further damage.

Schedule Your Eye Exam at Battleground Eye Care Today

If you’ve noticed any of the symptoms listed above or if it’s been a while since your last eye exam, we’re here to provide compassionate, expert care for all your eye health needs. Early detection and proper care can prevent complications and ensure that your vision remains clear and healthy for years to come.
 

Schedule your comprehensive eye exam with Battleground Eye Care to take the first step toward protecting your vision from cataracts. Visit our office in Greensboro, North Carolina, or call (336) 564-6800 to book an appointment today.