Cataracts are a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. However, the condition often progresses slowly, so many people do not recognize the initial signs, even attributing changes in their eyes to age.

Difficulty seeing at night

A common early symptom is reduced ability to see in low-light conditions. Individuals may find it difficult to drive at night, struggle to identify objects in the dark, or experience glare from headlights and bright light sources.

Needing more light to read

As the lens gradually becomes cloudy, the amount of light reaching the retina decreases. Individuals may need to turn on extra lights when reading, sewing, or performing tasks that require close vision. Many assume this is normal aging and do not seek eye examinations.

Cataracts reduce the amount of light reaching the retina, causing individuals to need more light for reading. *AI-generated image*.

Seeing one object as two

The clouding in the lens can scatter light, causing individuals to see two or more images of the same object. This phenomenon is known as diplopia (double vision). Diplopia can result from various causes: brain tumors, corneal edema, multiple sclerosis, stroke, and cataracts.

If it only appears when both eyes are open (binocular diplopia), this may signal serious health issues such as brain injury, uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension, Graves’ disease, or myasthenia gravis.

In contrast, monocular diplopia (seeing multiple images in only one eye) is often associated with corneal or lens abnormalities. Cataracts are a common cause. As cataracts advance, double vision may sometimes decrease or disappear.

Colors becoming dull or yellowish

A healthy lens is transparent, allowing light to transmit clearly to the retina. When a cataract develops, the lens may turn yellow or brown over time, making surrounding colors appear less vibrant. This change occurs gradually, making it difficult for many to notice until they compare with their other eye or after treatment.

Frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions

Continuously increasing or decreasing eyeglass power does not always resolve the issue if cataracts are the cause. This condition can alter the eye's refractive ability, making the current prescription unsuitable. Individuals may find their current glasses no longer provide clear vision and need to change prescriptions more often.

Adapting to blurry vision

Unlike many other eye conditions that appear suddenly, cataracts typically progress over many months or years. Gradual vision loss causes individuals to unconsciously adapt by changing daily habits, such as avoiding night driving, increasing indoor lighting, or limiting activities requiring detailed observation. This often leads to delayed diagnosis.

Cataracts can cause significant changes in vision. The condition not only affects older adults but can also occur in younger individuals due to trauma, medication side effects, or genetic factors.

However, not every vision change is due to cataracts. Some symptoms mentioned can also relate to serious medical conditions. Therefore, if individuals notice unusual vision changes or other accompanying symptoms, they should seek an eye examination.

Bao Bao (Compiled)