Could Cataracts Be Changing Your Vision?
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Vision changes don’t always happen suddenly. Sometimes the world simply starts looking a little less sharp. Colours may seem duller, bright lights more glaring, or driving at night may become increasingly uncomfortable. These changes can sometimes be caused by cataracts.
A cataract develops when the normally clear lens inside your eye becomes cloudy. Cataracts are very common as people get older and usually develop gradually, so you may not immediately realise that your vision has changed.
One of the early clues can be a general haziness or blurriness. You might find yourself cleaning your glasses more often, increasing the brightness on the television, or holding a book closer than you used to. Other signs include glare from bright lights, halos around lights, faded colours, and poorer night vision.
It’s tempting to assume you simply need a stronger glasses prescription. Sometimes new glasses can improve your vision in the early stages, but they won’t remove a cataract. If your vision continues to deteriorate despite changing your glasses, it’s worth having your eyes properly examined.
An optometrist can check for cataracts during an eye examination and look for other conditions that can affect your sight. Health New Zealand recommends regular eye examinations for people over 60.
If a cataract isn’t significantly affecting your daily life, it may simply be monitored. When it begins interfering with activities such as reading, watching television or driving, your optometrist, or healthcare provider can discuss whether surgery may be appropriate.
There are also simple ways to look after your eyes. Wearing sunglasses or a hat can reduce exposure to ultraviolet light, while not smoking and eating a balanced diet can also help protect your eye health.
You don’t have to wait until your vision becomes seriously impaired before doing something about it. If the world has gradually started looking a little cloudier, brighter, or less colourful than it used to, book an eye check. It may be a simple change that has an equally straightforward solution.
