Understanding Cataracts: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Cataracts can change how you see the world. You might notice things are dull or blurred. Reading and driving may feel harder than usual. These feelings can be frustrating, but you are not alone.

Many people go through this, too. It might worry you when everyday tasks become challenging. The good news is that there are treatments available. Clearer vision can be within reach.

What Are Cataracts?

Cataracts occur when the lens of the eye, a naturally clear structure behind the iris, becomes cloudy. Think of it like a smudged camera lens. Light struggles to pass through, making everything look blurry, hazy, or dull.

Most cataracts develop slowly, so you might not notice changes at first. But daily tasks like reading, cooking, or recognizing faces become harder over time.

Common Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

Cataracts do not cause sudden vision loss or pain. Instead, you should watch for these signs:

• Blurry or foggy vision, even with new glasses.

• Increased sensitivity to bright lights or glare.

• Trouble seeing at night or in dim light.

• Colors appearing yellowed or less vibrant.

• Double vision in one eye.

• Frequent changes to your eyeglass prescription.

If you have some of these symptoms, schedule an eye exam. Early detection matters.

Why Do Cataracts Happen?

Aging is the most common cause. Proteins in the eye’s lens break down over time, clumping together to create cloudy areas. But aging is not the only factor. Other causes include:

• Injury — A brutal hit to the eye can damage the lens.

• Diseases — Diabetes or long-term steroid use raises your risk.

• Lifestyle — Smoking or heavy alcohol use speeds up lens changes.

• Genetics — Some people inherit a higher likelihood of cataracts.

Even babies can be born with cataracts, though this is rare.

How Do Doctors Diagnose Cataracts?

An eye doctor uses a slit-lamp microscope to examine your lens. They will dilate your pupils to check for cloudiness and rule out other issues like glaucoma or macular degeneration. Testing takes less than 30 minutes and is painless. If cataracts are present, the doctor will grade their severity and discuss the next steps.

Treatment Options: When Is Surgery Necessary?

Not all cataracts require surgery. If symptoms are mild, stronger glasses or better lighting might help. But surgery becomes the best option once cataracts interfere with daily life—like driving, working, or hobbies.

Modern cataract surgery is quick and safe. The eye surgeon will replace the cloudy lens with an artificial one. It takes about 15 minutes per eye. Most people go home the same day.

Recovery is simple: avoid heavy lifting and protect your eyes from water for a week. Vision improves within days, often to 20/20 or better.

When to Talk to an Eye Doctor

Do not wait until your vision worsens. Schedule an exam if your vision feels strange, driving at night is difficult, or you avoid activities you used to enjoy. Eye doctors are there to help without judgment.

Cataracts can cause blurry vision, but treatments are now safer and more effective. You can look forward to seeing clearly again, reading, driving at night, and enjoying moments with loved ones.

For more on cataracts, visit Eclipse Eye Care at our Lewisville, Texas, office. Call (972) 471-9500 to schedule an appointment today.