10 Early Signs of Cataracts You Should Watch For

Cataracts are one of the most common causes of vision impairment, particularly among older adults. This condition occurs when the eye's natural lens becomes cloudy, causing blurred or diminished vision. While cataracts develop slowly, early detection can make a significant difference in treatment and prevention. Below are ten early signs of cataracts to watch for to ensure timely eye care.

1. Blurry or Clouded Vision

One of the most noticeable early signs of cataracts is a gradual increase in blurry or clouded vision. It may feel like you are looking through a fogged-up window, making it harder to see clearly, especially at a distance.
 

2. Increased Sensitivity to Light

Many people with cataracts become more sensitive to light and glare. Bright lights, especially in low-light settings, can cause discomfort or make it difficult to see clearly.
 

3. Difficulty Seeing at Night

As cataracts progress, night vision can worsen. You may struggle to see while driving at night, particularly when facing headlights, which can cause halos or increased glare.
 

4. Fading or Yellowing of Colors

Cataracts can cause colors to appear faded or less vibrant. Over time, you may notice that everything has a yellowish tint, which can make daily activities like reading or distinguishing objects more challenging.
 

5. Halos Around Lights

Halos or rings of light, particularly around streetlights or car headlights, can be an early indicator of cataracts. This can be both distracting and dangerous, especially when driving at night.
 

6. Double Vision in a Single Eye

While double vision is typically associated with neurological conditions, cataracts can also cause double vision (diplopia) in one eye. This symptom often goes away when the cataract worsens, but it is still an early warning sign to watch for.
 

7. Frequent Changes in Prescription

If you notice that your eyeglass or contact lens prescription seems to change more frequently than usual, it could be due to cataract development. Your vision might stabilize temporarily, but the underlying cataract will continue to grow.
 

8. Difficulty Reading or Performing Close-Up Tasks

Cataracts can make it harder to read, sew, or perform other close-up tasks. If you find yourself needing more light than usual or holding objects farther away to see them clearly, it may be a sign of cataracts.
 

9. Glare and Starbursts

When looking at bright lights, you may notice glare or starburst patterns that disrupt your vision. This is another common early sign of cataracts and can interfere with daily activities like driving and walking in the sun.
 

10. Aging Eyes

Cataracts are most commonly associated with aging. If you are over 60 and notice any changes in your vision, it is essential to schedule regular eye exams to catch cataracts early and explore potential treatment options.
 

Schedule Your Comprehensive Eye Exam with Takhar Eye Care Today

If you or a loved one experiences any of these early cataract symptoms, it’s important to schedule an eye exam as soon as possible. Cataracts can be effectively treated with surgery, restoring clear vision and improving quality of life. At Takhar Eye Care, we are committed to helping you maintain healthy vision and providing personalized cataract treatment plans tailored to your needs.
 

Schedule your comprehensive eye exam with Takhar Eye Care to protect your vision and catch cataracts early. Visit our office in Bakersfield, California, or call (661) 397-2020 to book an appointment today.