When Should I Get Cataract Surgery

Cataracts occur when proteins in the eye clump together and cloud the lens. You don’t have to live with distorted vision since the condition is treatable through surgery. Here’s some information about when you should consider getting cataract surgery:

Blurred Vision 

Blurred or cloudy vision is one of the early signs of cataracts. Cataracts cloud the lens, making it difficult for light to pass through. This results in hazy or fuzzy vision, which can prevent you from doing basic activities like cooking, watching television, and working.

Consult a reputable ophthalmologist when you notice blurred vision, especially if it interferes with your ability to work, drive, read, or recognize faces. An eye doctor will likely conduct tests to eliminate other causes of blurred vision, like digital eye strain and myopia. They may recommend cataract surgery if they conclude cataracts are the cause of your cloudy vision. Surgery may help improve your vision, making it easier to perform daily tasks. 

Poor Night Vision

Cataracts can affect night vision as they block portions of light. You may find it difficult to see clearly around streetlamps and car headlights, as cataracts cause halos when faced with such light sources. Consider surgery if you drive at night, as nighttime driving with impaired vision can be dangerous. Surgery can improve your ability to see in low-light conditions, enhancing your safety and the safety of others on the road. 

Faded Colors 

Cataracts may make it seem like you’re seeing the world through a dirty window. Colors may appear dull and faded because the clouding of the lens prevents the eye from perceiving and processing light properly. You may also notice white items appearing yellow or brown as cataracts progress. Consider surgery if you find it difficult to distinguish colors you previously could. Cataract surgery can restore your color perception by replacing your eyes’ natural lenses with artificial ones. 

Frequent Prescription Changes 

It’s normal for your eye doctor to change your prescription for contact lenses or glasses once in a while as you age because your eyesight changes. But it’s concerning if you require frequent prescription changes to see properly. This may be a sign of cataracts as they cause rapid vision changes. Surgery can stabilize your vision, eliminating the need to constantly change your prescription. 

Double Vision 

You may start seeing multiple images of objects when you have cataracts because they cause light to scatter in the eye. Double vision can impact your quality of life as you may be unable to perform daily tasks effectively. Consider getting surgery if you can’t complete activities because of double vision. Surgery involves removing the cloudy lens responsible for the visual distortion. 

Light Sensitivity 

You may need surgery if you find yourself squinting in bright environments. Cataracts can cause increased sensitivity to bright indoor lighting or sunlight — this is often one of the early signs of cataracts. It can make it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities when it’s bright out or perform everyday tasks like cooking in well-lit areas. Cataract surgery can reduce light sensitivity, allowing you to work in brightly lit environments. 

What To Expect Before Cataract Surgery

Ophthalmologists typically conduct ultrasound tests several days before surgery to determine the size and shape of clients’ eyes. This helps determine the right intraocular lens (IOL) power, improving the chances of achieving the desired visual outcome after surgery. The IOL replaces the clouded natural lens. Patients don’t typically feel the lens as it naturally becomes part of the eye when implanted correctly. 

Ophthalmologists also assess patients’ medical histories to identify risk factors that may affect the surgery or its outcomes. Your eye doctor may recommend rescheduling surgery if you have high blood pressure or diabetes to enhance your safety during the procedure. They may also ask you to stop using medications like blood thinners before surgery to minimize the risk of bleeding. A thorough assessment may help improve your chances of seeing positive results from your surgery. 

Consider Eye Surgery for Your Cataracts

Schedule an appointment with a qualified eye doctor when you notice the signs discussed here. A professional will conduct an eye test to determine if you have cataracts or any other eye condition. You may need surgery to restore normal vision if you have cataracts.