SYMPTOMS OF CATARACTS
Experiencing blurry, faded or hazy vision? Having trouble seeing at night and in low light? Seeing halos in your field of vision? Or do your eyes feel increasingly sensitive to light? Noticing a cloudy appearance to the pupils? These are all signs that you might be developing cataracts1. Here you can find out more about the most common symptoms and how to spot them. If you think you might be developing this condition, we recommend seeking the help of your eye care professional who will be able to support you.
What are the symptoms of cataracts?
From blurry vision and seeing halos to a heightened sensitivity to light and difficulty seeing in low lighting, here are some of the most common symptoms of cataracts to look out for.
Blurry or hazy vision
Vision may become misty or blurry – everything appears less distinct.
Difficulty seeing in low light or at night
Struggling with seeing at night or in dimmed lighting.
Changes to pupil colour
A white, cloudy colouring to the pupil.
Sensitivity to light
Lights feel brighter to look at and can cause discomfort.
Faded or muted colours in vision
Colours might seem faded or more muted than usual.
Halo vision
Seeing light halos around lights.
How are cataracts diagnosed?
A cataract diagnosis is usually made by an eye care professional at a sight test or other eye-related appointment. Sometimes this happens before an individual experiences any symptoms, however you might already be experiencing cloudy vision, blurry vision and/or sight that seems to be gradually worsening over time. Your eye care professional will usually examine the front of your eyes using a microscope called a slit lamp, which allows them to gain a magnified view of the lens of your eyes. During this eye exam, your eye care professional will be able to detect any opacities of the lens, to diagnose a cataract, and will also examine your vision, including assessing reading tasks, to evaluate the impact of the cataract on your vision.
References:
1 NHS
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