Cataracts are a nearly unavoidable part of getting older. A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s lens that occurs when the proteins that make up the lens clump together. In the early stages of a cataract, it may have little effect on vision. But as a cataract progresses, the visual effects will become nearly impossible to ignore.
Read on as Dr. Raymond Stein of Bochner Eye Institute explains what life is like with cataracts.
Declining Ability To Read Small Text
Cataracts cause blurry or cloudy vision, which makes it hard to see fine details. In the early stages of a cataract, a person may notice he or she needs brighter light to read a newspaper or magazine. But as the cataract gets bigger, it may be challenging to read small text no matter how bright the room is. A decline in the ability to read fine print can impact many basic tasks, such as checking the time, reading an expiration date, typing out a text or using a computer.
Difficulty Driving at Night
A decline in night vision is common with cataracts. Glare, halos and starbursts around lights can interfere with reading road signs or noticing other cars or pedestrians. In fact, some people with cataracts opt not to drive at night at all because of concerns about safety.
Colors Appear Dull or Faded
Cataracts can cause colors to appear dull, faded or yellowish. This may make getting dressed or discerning between ripe or rotten produce tough.
Frequent Changes in Vision Prescription
When the effects of cataracts first become apparent, a person may assume he or she needs stronger glasses. But after repeated prescription changes in a relatively short amount of time, it may become apparent that cataracts — not the glasses — are the problem.
Inability To Enjoy Hobbies or Exercise
Because of blurry vision, dull or faded colors and other effects of cataracts, some people lose their ability to enjoy hobbies and exercise. Cooking, baking, golfing or even taking a leisurely walk outside is less pleasurable when faced with the symptoms of cataracts. Hobbies like sewing, photography and fishing can actually become more of a burden than a joy with diminished vision.
Improve Vision With Cataract Surgery
Are cataracts interfering with your ability to live an active, independent lifestyle? Cataract surgery can help. The procedure is extremely safe and routine, with a high success rate. Your eyes will be completely numbed and you will receive additional medication to help you relax during the procedure. Your clouded lens will be removed and replaced with an artificial lens to restore clear vision and even improve upon the vision you had before cataracts. Thanks to cataract surgery, you can look forward to reading, driving, exercising and enjoying your favorite hobbies again, without relying on loved ones for help.
To speak with Dr. Stein and the team at Bochner Eye Institute about cataract surgery, please contact us today.