Cataracts occur when the lens, the transparent part of the eye that focuses light onto the retina, becomes cloudy. This cloudiness can be caused by aging or other factors such as disease or trauma. These factors can cause proteins in the lens to change and clump together, forming cloudy areas that obstruct the passage of light to the retina.

Doctor Le Thanh Huyen from the High-Tech Eye Center at Tam Anh General Hospital advises that people over 40, or those with risk factors such as diabetes, use of corticosteroid medications, smoking, or prolonged UV exposure, should have regular eye exams due to increased cataract risk. Individuals experiencing the following symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.

Decreased vision

The first noticeable sign of cataracts is gradually blurred vision, or a sensation of looking through a dirty lens. Initially, blurred vision may come and go, especially in the morning or when tired. However, vision will progressively worsen over time.

Poor color perception

As cataracts develop, color vision becomes less vibrant or takes on a yellowish tint. This is because the clouding lens gradually turns yellow or light brown, affecting color perception. Patients often perceive white objects as having a pale yellow hue and struggle to distinguish between blue and purple. This process is so gradual that many people only realize the difference in color perception after cataract surgery.

Increased light sensitivity

People with cataracts often become more sensitive to glare and bright lights. Sunlight reflecting off cars, streetlights, and oncoming headlights can cause uncomfortable glare or create halos and streaks of light. This can be especially bothersome while driving, particularly at night or in bright sunlight.

Checking for cataracts. Photo: *Tam Anh Hospital*

Difficulty seeing at night

As the condition progresses, the ability to see in low-light conditions deteriorates. Patients may find they need more light to read and experience difficulty driving at night due to increased glare from oncoming headlights.

Frequent changes in eyeglass prescription

According to Dr. Huyen, while changes in vision with age are normal, cataracts can cause more rapid and frequent changes. Patients may need a new eyeglass prescription every few months, rather than every year or two. Some individuals may temporarily experience clearer close-up vision without glasses, but this is often a sign of progressing cataracts, not actual vision improvement.

Double vision

A characteristic symptom of cataracts is seeing double or multiple images in one eye, even when the other eye is closed. This occurs because the cloudy areas on the lens scatter light, creating multiple images instead of one clear image. This symptom can be disorienting and affect depth perception and balance, making activities like driving or climbing stairs more hazardous.

Dr. Huyen recommends seeking immediate medical attention if you experience any changes in vision. Early detection and intervention not only help protect eyesight but also reduce the risk of potential complications such as glaucoma.

Khue Lam