Cataract Symptoms
Cataract is an eye disease that occurs when the lens of the eye loses its transparency and becomes cloudy, which significantly affects the quality of vision. While it typically develops with age, factors such as diabetes, prolonged use of corticosteroids, eye trauma, and genetic predisposition can also accelerate the development of cataracts. So, what are the symptoms of cataracts? The answer to this question is of great importance for early diagnosis and treatment.
Most Common Cataract Symptoms
Blurred Vision:
This is the most common symptom of cataracts. Vision becomes blurry and foggy, as if looking through a foggy glass. This condition worsens over time, and clear vision is eventually lost.
Difficulty Seeing at Night:
Cataract patients particularly struggle when driving at night. Car headlights can scatter in the eyes, glare increases, and night vision significantly decreases.
Light and Glare Sensitivity:
A cataract-affected eye cannot properly refract and focus light, making sunlight, streetlights, or screen lights uncomfortable. Light scattering and glares are common.
Seeing Faded Colors:
Cataracts filter colors, reducing their vibrancy. Blues, greens, and yellows may appear dull, faded, and dirty. This situation can worsen over time.
Double Vision (Monocular Diplopia):
Advanced cataracts can cause double vision even when looking with just one eye. This can be particularly challenging in activities requiring reading and focusing.
Frequent Changes in Glasses Prescription:
As cataracts progress, refractive errors also change. A constant need to change glasses prescriptions could be an early sign of cataracts.
Difficulty Reading and Eye Fatigue:
People with cataracts may experience quick eye fatigue, blurriness, and difficulty reading during close-up work.
When Do Cataract Symptoms Begin?
Cataracts are usually seen in individuals aged 50 and above, but they can begin earlier due to genetic factors, prolonged sun exposure, or diseases such as diabetes. Rare cases of congenital cataracts can even be seen in infants.
Early Diagnosis is Important
Cataracts are a slowly progressing disease. It may not be noticeable at first, but as it progresses, it seriously affects daily life quality. If diagnosed early and treated with modern surgical methods, vision loss can be completely restored.
If you are experiencing cataract symptoms and feel your vision quality is decreasing, you can contact us for a detailed eye examination and effective treatment options.
Op. Dr. Yıldız Acar Ebcim
Ophthalmologist
