The Tell-Tale Signs Of Cataracts
One of the main causes of vision impairment in seniors is cataracts. The American Academy of Ophthalmology shows that up to 25 million Americans who are 40 years and above suffer from cataracts. The study further states that half of all Americans suffer from cataracts by the time they turn 75 years. Here are some tell-tale signs of cataracts.
Cloudy Days
The major sign of cataracts is blurry vision. As you age, the lens of your eye becomes cloudy. This is caused by an accumulation of proteins in the lens. As a result, you have difficulty seeing.
Many patients with cataracts describe seeing things as if they are staring through a foggy window. The main types of cataracts are posterior subcapsular cataracts, cortical cataracts, and nuclear cataracts. These conditions affect different areas of the lens. Those suffering from nuclear cataracts often experience improvement. If you start having cloudy visions, you should consult an optometrist.
Night Blindness
If you are having difficulty seeing at night, this is an early sign of cataracts. At first, you might not notice you have night blindness. However, if you are keen to realize that your vision is better during the day or when there is a bright light, you should consult an optometrist.
The impairment of night vision causes you to struggle with road signs when driving at night. Your vision may darken and lead to tinges of yellow or brown. If your night vision is deteriorating significantly, you need to have your eyes examined for cataracts.
Color Discoloration
People suffering from cataracts can lead to color blindness. When cataracts are advanced, they cause colors to appear faded or less intense. For example, you will start seeing white as yellow. This is because cataracts are brown or yellow in color. Therefore, they make everything you look at appear brown or yellow. You will have difficulty differentiating colors. However, corrective surgery can help restore color to your vision.
Second Sight
Another warning sign of cataracts is second sight. This is when cataracts become a stronger lens and improve your ability to visualize at a close distance. Therefore, a person who requires reading glasses may have no use for them. If you notice certain drastic changes in your vision, you should consult an optometrist.
Second sight is short-lived. It happens because cataracts start developing in the center of your lenses and make them swell. This swelling is what improves your ability to focus light from close distances. To learn more, contact an eye doctor.
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