Tired of Blurry Vision? 5 Signs It’s Time for Cataract Surgery

Have you noticed your vision isn’t as sharp as it used to be? Maybe streetlights look distorted, or small print is harder to read. These issues are common in older adults. You might think it’s just a natural part of aging, but it could be something more serious, like cataracts. Studies show that nearly half of adults 75 and older have cataracts, but they can be hard to detect. 

At Eye Surgeons Associates, which serves patients in Canton, Livonia, and Monroe, Michigan, our team of expert ophthalmologists specializes in cataract treatment, including advanced cataract surgery. 

Here are five common signs it might be time for cataract surgery.

Sign #1: Blurred or cloudy vision

Cataracts form when proteins clump together inside your eye’s natural lens. These lenses are usually clear, but as more protein collects, they cloud your vision, similar to how a finger smudge distorts a camera lens. 

Everyone experiences age-related vision changes, but if your vision isn’t clear and you’re frequently updating your prescription, cataract surgery may offer a permanent solution.

Sign #2: Difficulty seeing at night

Cataracts can cause light to scatter inside your eye, which is especially noticeable at night. You might notice more glare from other drivers’ headlights or halos around traffic lights. If glasses or contacts don’t help, schedule an eye exam. Poor night vision from cataracts can increase the risk of accidents, so taking action is essential.

Sign #3: Increased sensitivity to light and glare

Do indoor lights seem exceptionally bright, or does going outside on a sunny day feel excruciating? Increased light sensitivity and glare are two telltale signs of cataract progression. Cataract surgery can correct this, helping you navigate your home and the outdoors comfortably.

Sign #4: Fading or yellowing of colors

As cataracts grow, they form inside the eye’s lens, acting like a filter. This dampens hues, making the world appear dull and muted. Reduced color saturation and contrast can also affect your depth perception, increasing the likelihood of slips, falls, and other injuries. If bright white shirts now appear beige or the sky isn’t a brilliant blue on sunny days, scheduling a cataract exam is a good idea.

Sign #5: Frequent changes in prescription

Because cataracts distort how light enters the eyes, many patients need frequent updates to their glasses or contact lens prescriptions. As cataracts progress, they can make it harder for your eyes to focus, causing blurred or distorted vision. Updating your prescription once a year is reasonable, but if you’re doing it once every few months, cataract surgery can provide relief.

Don’t wait to see if you have cataracts

If you have any of the above symptoms and worry you may have cataracts, call your nearest Eye Surgeons Associates office to request an appointment. After reviewing your health records, discussing your symptoms, and completing a comprehensive eye exam, we can confirm whether you have cataracts and make personalized treatment recommendations. Prompt care can slow cataract progression and help keep your vision sharp.