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Cloudy vision Vision that’s blurry, foggy, or filmy. This may also change the way you see colours making them look faded.
Changes in colour vision Colours can look faded and washed out. As the cataract develops, these may take on a yellow or brownish tinge.
Glare while driving You may have trouble with bright sunlight, street lighting, and the headlights of oncoming traffic. These can appear to have halos
Difficulty with reading A posterior subcapsular cataract can affect your reading vision. As with glare when driving, it may also reduce your vision in bright light and at night.
Frequent glasses prescription changes An update of glasses prescription will only temporarily correct cataract vision. As the cataract worsens, the prescription will need re-updating until glasses are no longer effective.
Double-vision or ghosting of images (especially if only noticeable in one eye) People suspecting they have a cataract can perform a simple test to confirm. Close one eye. If the open eye still retains double vision, a cataract is likely.
Halos around lights Seeing bright circles around lights is a sign that you might have a cataract. This can make driving at night or navigating areas of low light difficult.
Progressive need for brighter light for reading Cataracts can cause sight in low lighting areas to be difficult. This can mean you struggle to perceive things close up, like words on a page, without bright lights.
Recent struggle with vision at night As cataracts develop, they start to obscure more and more of a person’s vision. This can make things like seeing at night and in areas of low light very difficult
Increased sensitivity to light People suffering from posterior subcapsular cataracts can be particularly susceptible to light sensitivity.
Discolouration of your eye One of the most obvious signs you have a cataract is the visible discolouration. This is caused by the build-up of proteins and can make your eye appear cloudy.
As cataracts get worse, vision becomes more cloudy and you might notice worsening of the above symptoms.
Did you know?
Around 36 million people across the world are blind. Over 12 million of these are blind due to cataracts1.
What causes cataracts?
Natural ageing changes (most cataracts are formed this way)
Nuclear sclerotic cataracts usually develop with age. They form deep in the central part of the lens and increase gradually
Cortical cataracts can be caused by increased risk factors such as diabetes. This type of cataract begins at the edge of the lens and can be described as gradually moving into the centre in a spoke-like manner. Cortical cataracts can develop quite quickly, over a period of months
Posterior subcapsular cataracts can be caused by taking steroid medication, diabetes, radiation or extreme near-sightedness. This type of cataract forms at the back of the lens. It can make vision blurry and make it difficult to see in bright light. Activities such as driving, especially at night, can be particularly difficult.
How are cataracts diagnosed?
Cataracts can be diagnosed fairly easily by an ophthalmologist or optometrist, through a consultation and an eye examination.
Hear from our expert: “The main signs of having cataracts are cloudy or faded vision, seeing halos around lights, changes in your colour vision, and visible discolouration of your eye.“
If you think you may be developing signs of cataracts, you need a professional eye exam by your eye doctor, optician or ophthalmologist (after referral by your GP). If your vision problems can be corrected to an acceptable level with glasses or contact lenses, surgery may be avoided at this time. If your vision loss cannot be corrected by the above measures and if this interferes with your daily activities such as driving or watching television, then you may benefit from cataract surgery.
What does cataract surgery involve?
Cataract surgery is the removal of the cataract and insertion of an artificial lens called an Intraocular Lens Implant (IOL) into the eye. Far more than 90% of patients operated on have a significant improvement in their vision.
The operation can be performed at any stage of cataract development. There is no need to wait until your cataract is “ripe” before removing it. Most people choose to have their cataracts removed when the change in their vision starts to cause them difficulties in everyday life.
Early-stage cataract treatment means you can improve your vision faster and prevent it from worsening. You can learn about cataract surgery waiting times here.
Are you awake during cataract surgery?
Cataract surgery usually takes about 15 minutes and most people go home from hospital about two hours later. It is done under local anaesthetic, which means you will be awake during the operation. Most of the time drops will be used to numb the eye.
After the operation, you will need to put drops into your eyes for a few weeks.
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How can I prevent my cataracts from getting worse?
Lasers are not used to remove cataracts and there is no evidence to suggest that changing your diet, taking vitamins or using eye drops can cure cataracts.
To prevent your cataracts from getting worse, you could try:
ensuring you have regular eye examinations
wear sunglasses when out in the sun
reduce alcohol and smoking
manage other health issues that increase the risk of cataracts, such as diabetes.
Can cataracts be prevented?
To date, there is no proven method of preventing cataracts. It is very important to have regular eye examinations (every two years for adults and then every year after the age of 50) as conditions that may affect your eye health become increasingly common with age.
Please ask your local optician or talk to your doctor if you have any risk factors or indications that cataracts may be affecting your vision. Risk factors for cataracts include:
Not quite found the information you’re looking for? Our signs and symptoms of cataract FAQs can help!
What are the first symptoms of having cataracts?
If you have a cataract you may experience:
– blurred vision – fading colours – poor night vision – glare when driving at night – glare during the day – double vision – need to change glasses frequently – difficulty in reading / seeing your phone – difficulty in seeing TV text.
What do early stage cataracts look like?
In a healthy eye, the lenses focus the light on a spot on the retina and this gives clear vision. With cataracts, the lens of your eye (which lies behind the iris) becomes increasingly cloudy, like frosted glass and can give you cloudy vision. Your doctor will be able to discuss your symptoms with you and make a decision as to whether they are consistent with the early signs of cataracts.
Can you get cataracts at any age?
Cataracts can start at any age according to the type of cataract, however, the most common form of cataract – nuclear sclerotic – develops over time and due to its nature predominantly affects people over 65 years old.
How quickly do cataracts progress?
Depending on the type of cataract, progression can be months or years. With age related cataracts progress tends to be over years, as the eye lens harden and yellow over time. Progress of cataracts can also be influenced by lifestyle, medication or illness.
How do you tell if your cataracts are getting worse?
Regular eye exams will help detect the first signs of a cataract worsening. You may also experience more difficulty with activities such as driving at night or reading. If you suspect a change, you should make an appointment with an optician or ophthalmologist.
How do you know if you have cataracts or glaucoma?
Regular eye testing is key in monitoring for cataracts and glaucoma. Whilst cataracts are a clouding of the lens, glaucoma is a condition where loss of peripheral vision is caused by damage to the optic nerve. Both cataracts and glaucoma are common eye conditions which share some of the same risk factors.
Can you feel a cataract?
Cataracts do not usually cause pain or discomfort, however, some cataract symptoms can be uncomfortable and affect daily activities, such as; glare, difficulty reading, double vision or sensitivity to light.
Can you see cataracts in the mirror?
When a cataract first forms it will be difficult to see with the naked eye, but over time and, if allowed to progress without treatment, a cataract will become visible and look like a cloudy film over the eye.
What does vision look like with cataracts?
Because cataracts are the result of a cloudy lens, vision may be altered. You may experience double vision, blurring, fading colours, glare or poor vision at night.
Do cataracts cause dry eyes?
Dry eyes can be due to several different causes, but cataracts can lead to dry eyes indirectly. Cataracts lead to cloudy vision, if uncorrected, it can lead to blepharitis (inflammation of the lid margins), which could lead to changes in the tear film leading to dry eyes. If you are experiencing dry eyes alongside other eye problems it is always good to see an eye doctor just to be sure.
Do cataracts make your eyes water?
Cataracts lead to cloudy vision, if uncorrected, it can lead to blepharitis (inflammation of the lid margins), which could lead to changes in the tear film leading to dry eyes and watery eyes secondarily. If you are experiencing dry eyes alongside other eye problems it is always good to see an eye doctor just to be sure.
Can you self-test for cataracts?
If you have the symptoms or signs of cataracts described in this article, you can book an appointment with an optician or ophthalmologist. Meeting with a professional, describing your symptoms and having an eye exam will result in early diagnosis and help you get prompt treatment.
Acknowledgements
This article was completed with the help of Dr Marzena Raszewska-Steglinska. She graduated from medical school in 1991 at the Medical University in Lodz, Poland and completed her speciality training in ophthalmology in 2009. She has over 12 years’ experience working as an ophthalmologist and has a special interest in cataract, eyelid surgery, oculoplastic surgery, and anti-glaucoma treatment. Her aim is to provide the best possible outcome for every patient by focusing on each individual’s needs. She prides herself on being attentive to the smallest details and understands what people need. She is proud of her excellent patient outcome records.
Cataract surgery, Devizes – cannot fault the care and attention
My wife recently had a cataract operation here and cannot fault the care and attention given to her by all the staff involved.
by Chris Longdon, Google
Cataract surgery, Gillingham – everyone very friendly
I went for my cataract assessment today and found everyone very friendly and I was put at ease about the procedure. I feel very relaxed to know that I’ll be in good hands when the time for my surgery arrives.
by Sandra Church, Google
Cataract surgery, Portsmouth – exceedingly courteous and helpful
Appointments staff exceedingly courteous and helpful getting both my elderly parents booked in for appointments on the same day and directly after each other, for eye surgery.
by Paula Stubbs, Google
Cataract surgery, Plymouth – fabulous practice
I had 2 cataract operations by the same surgeon and she was excellent! Both eyes are now perfect and operations went without a hitch! Aftercare was superb!
by Anonymous, Plymouth
Cataract surgery, Gillingham – friendly, caring and professional
Attended for cataract surgery and cannot fault the care I received from every single member of staff. Following a warm and friendly welcome at reception, pre surgery checks were carried out in a friendly, caring and professional manner with everything clearly explained – this carried through to the actual procedure where theatre staff were so kind and reassuring.
by Yvonne Akrill, Google
Cataract surgery, Gillingham – made my experience worry-free
I was very nervous at the start of my visit, but was absolutely amazed at the professional and caring service. The staff were so kind and helpful to make my experience worry free. The Surgeon was excellent and gentle, and I am so glad I had my eye surgery there. 100% a perfect day. Love to you all at Practice Plus Group, Gillingham.
by Philip Bevens, Google
Cataract surgery, Southampton – highly recommend
I highly recommend Practice Plus Group! I had eye surgery yesterday and already can see clearly.
by Dave
Cataract surgery, Gillingham – made to feel safe
My mum is 89 she was very frightened to have her cataract removed but when she got to the Gillingham practice from the start to the end she was made to feel safe with Mr R Govindan and the nurses on his team my mum is looking forward to having her other eye done
by Rosemary Jones, Google
Cataract surgery – quick and well organised
The whole process was very quick and well organised from first contact to being discharged. The initial telephone contact allowed me to ask questions and be directed to the clinic which would best suit my needs. Everyone involved was very friendly and quickly put me at ease. I was always explained choices and not pressured into any response. My concerns were fully answered enabling me to feel confident to go ahead. I loved my consultants humour during the procedure keeping me involved and relaxed. My eyesight is amazing now with no need to wear glasses so I’m extremely satisfied.
by Mary Hillman, Google
Cataract surgery, Rochdale – staff efficient and reassuring
I recently had cataract surgery at Croft Shifa Health Centre, Rochdale, with Practice Plus. I found them excellent and the outcome amazing. From referral by my Optician to the procedure on my second eye it took only 10 weeks, and this was through the NHS route. I was naturally frightened but I found the staff efficient and reassuring. The procedure itself was totally painless and I was given good advice on aftercare. The difference in my vision is just amazing so I am very grateful to Practice Plus. Thank you.
by Liz W, Trust Pilot
Cataract surgery, Devizes – thank you for the great care
Thank you to all the team at Devizes for the great care they gave my dad when he came in for his cataract operation in March. The team were all very caring and efficient looking after him very well. Thanks for the many follow-up phone calls by the team making sure he was followed up by his GP on his return home. Thanks again.
by Alison Packer, Google
Cataract surgery, Rochdale – the care given was second to none
I had my cataracts removed from both eyes at Practice Plus in Rochdale, one in March 2022 and the second in April 2022. The care I was given by everyone involved, from consultant to nursing team to the patient services team was second to none. I will be forever grateful to everyone who looked after me and made my sight better than it has ever been!
