A cataract occurs when the lens in our eyes becomes cloudy from natural proteins that build up over time and obstruct clear vision. Cataracts cause a frosty or fogged-up view. Cataracts cause clouded vision, making it hard to read, drive or see finer details. They develop gradually and interfere with your vision more and more over time.
Initially, strong lighting and eyeglasses will aid you in dealing with cataracts, but as time goes by, cataracts grow and may require treatment to help manage the condition. If you have cataracts, visit an eye clinic near you. Our eye doctor in North York at Yorkdale Eyecare offers cataract evaluations in all our eye examinations.
Although cataracts mostly occur as a result of age; factors such as medications, UV exposure, diet, and genetics are some predisposing factors that cause cataracts to occur earlier in life.
Cataract symptoms vary among different people. Common symptoms of cataracts include:
The most prevalent symptom of cataracts is blurry vision. Your vision seems cloudy and colors appear faded with a yellowish tinge. In addition, you experience difficulties seeing in dim lighting.
This causes most people with cataracts to struggle to read at night without extra lighting.
Double vision is when you see ghosting images or shadowing images. A cloudy lens usually cannot reflect light correctly, resulting in multiple fragmented and duplicate images. This can affect your ability to read or do many other daily tasks.
Glare from light sources is a symptom of cataracts and is usually bothersome; particularly for people with posterior subcapsular cataracts. Subcapsular cataracts start at the back of the lens, blocking light waves from passing through the retina.
Most people notice this symptom when driving at night. The bright headlights from oncoming traffic make driving tricky.
Other Symptoms Include:
With advanced cataracts, they darken and gain a yellow or brown tinge. This can hinder night vision which can make nighttime activities like driving difficult.
Having to replace your eyeglasses often may be an indication that you are developing a cataract. If you experience this symptom, visit an eye doctor near you for treatment.
If you are having any trouble at all performing daily activities due to the above symptoms, it’s time to get an appointment with an eye doctor near you. Once you visit the doctor, they will conduct a thorough assessment of your cataract(s) to better determine your treatment needs. Call us or book an appointment with us at Yorkdale Eyecare for cataract assessment and management in North York, ON!