Cloudy vision, deteriorating vision, trouble with night vision, and problems with halos or glare are the most common and distinctive cataract symptoms.
What are the symptoms of Cataracts?
- Cloudy or foggy vision
- Blurry or distorted vision
- Changes in colour vision
- Frequent increases in eyeglass or contact lens prescriptions
- Poor night vision (especially affected by headlights)
- Progressive loss of vision
- Halos or glare around lights
- Double vision
- Loss of contrast
- A white or ‘milky’ spot over the pupil of the eye
Cataracts usually develop slowly and at a different rate within each eye. Some years may pass before the cataract interferes with vision enough for a person to seek expert advice.
The earliest symptoms can begin with glare and sensitivity to bright light. Later, as the cataract continues to worsen, haloes may appear around lights. Haloes are especially noticeable when driving at night; at the same time night vision typically decreases. Vision typically becomes more blurred, hazy and foggy, though near vision without glasses can improve. Colours often become duller and darker.
Someone with an advanced stage of cataract sees the world as if looking through a dirty or foggy window. Glare becomes a serious problem. Reading, driving, computer work and hobbies become difficult and eventually impossible due to diminishing vision.
When there is any change in your vision, it is advisable to have a thorough examination of your eyes. If you experience any of the above symptoms, you may need a referral from your doctor or optometrist to visit an ophthalmologist. Ophthalmologists are trained specialists who can identify if your symptoms are being caused by a cataract.
