Cataracts are a common age-related eye condition that affects millions of people worldwide. They occur when the natural lens in your eye becomes cloudy, making it difficult to see clearly. Although cataracts can be treated with surgery, it is always best to catch them early so that they don’t progress too far. In this blog, we’ll discuss the early signs of cataracts and what you can do to prevent them.
EARLY SIGNS OF CATARACT
1. Blurry Vision
One of the earliest and most noticeable signs of cataracts is blurry vision. You may find that your vision is cloudy or hazy, especially when you’re trying to look at objects in the distance. This can make it difficult to drive, read, or perform other everyday activities.
The lens, which is normally clear, begins to develop a cloudy or hazy appearance as the proteins in the lens start to break down and clump together. This cloudiness scatters light and makes it harder to see, leading to blurry vision.
As the cataract grows, the blurriness will become more pronounced, making it difficult to see fine details or to distinguish between objects that are close or far away.
2. Sensitivity to Light
Another early sign of cataracts is sensitivity to light. If you find that bright lights, like those from the sun, are causing you to squint or are causing you discomfort, you may have the beginnings of a cataract.
3. Double Vision
In some cases, people with cataracts may experience double vision. This occurs when the lens in one eye is cloudy, while the lens in the other eye is clear. The result is that you may see two images instead of one.
4. frequent change in glasses:
The refractive power of the lens continues to change as the cataract grows as a result of structural changes inside the lens. Consequently, individuals may visit their ophthalmologist more frequently for refraction.
5. Poor Night Vision
If you’re having trouble seeing at night, especially when you’re driving, this could be another early sign of cataracts. The cloudy lens can make it difficult to see in low light conditions, which can be dangerous when you’re driving or walking on a dark street.
6. Changes in Color Perception
Another early sign of cataracts is a change in color perception. You may find that colors seem less vivid, or that they appear yellowed or browned. This is because the lens in your eye is affecting the way light is transmitted to your retina.
As the lens begins to yellow or brown with age, it can cause a reduction in the amount of blue light that reaches the retina, which can result in a yellowing of your vision.
In severe cases, people with cataracts may see the world as if they were looking through a yellow or brown filter.
What You Can Do to Prevent Cataracts
There are several things you can do to prevent cataracts or slow their progression.
1. Protect eyes from harmful UV light: Wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection whenever you’re outside.
2. Eat a healthy, balanced diet that is rich in antioxidants like vitamins C and E, which can help keep your eyes healthy.
3. Quit smoking: Smoking increases your risk of developing cataracts.
4. Go for routine eye check up: If you’re already experiencing any of the early signs of cataracts, it’s important to see an eye doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor can examine your eyes and determine the best course of treatment.
5. Manage other chronic health problems such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, nutritional deficiency, obesity and high cholesterol.
In conclusion, cataracts are a common age-related eye condition, but you can catch them early by paying attention to the early signs. Blurry vision, sensitivity to light, double vision, poor night vision, and changes in color perception and refraction are all warning signs that you may be developing cataracts. With proper care and attention, you can prevent or slow the progression of cataracts, preserving your vision and quality of life.