Posted by: Georgia Eye Physicians and Surgeons in Latest News

Last month, we discussed five of the most common signs of cataracts. This common condition affects tens of millions of people worldwide, and left untreated, it can ultimately lead to vision loss. As we discussed in part one, cataracts are progressive, meaning they gradually get worse over time. Therefore, it’s important to understand the symptoms, however minor they may seem. Here are four more symptoms of cataracts, some of which may surprise you:

  • Second sight

What Causes Cataracts and How Can You Treat Them This one may seem counterintuitive at first. “Second sight” is not another way of saying “double vision,” nor does it refer to clairvoyance or the ability to see the future (though that’s one way it’s commonly used). Sometimes, when people develop cataracts, they may notice that their vision actually improves temporarily. This is because a cataract can act as a stronger lens. However, as the cataract becomes more severe, the patient’s vision begins to suffer even more than it did before the cataract developed.

  • Frequent vision prescription changes

Cataracts progressively worsen with time, the effect often being a frequent need for new glasses or contact lens prescription. If you have routine eye exams regularly out of necessity, it’s probably time to have a medical comprehensive eye exam to check for cataracts and other eye-health issues.

  • Worsening night vision

If you’re developing cataracts, you may notice that you can’t see as well at night or in dark rooms as you used to be able to. This is because the clouding of the eye’s natural lens doesn’t allow as much light to enter the eye, in addition to compromising one’s overall vision.

  • Increased sensitivity to light 

If you’ve noticed that indoor lights have begun to bother you, you can’t see as well in bright sunlight as you used to, or you’re having difficulty driving at night because of increased glare from headlights and streetlights, cataracts may be the culprit. This increased light sensitivity may come in the form of light intolerance or the appearance of “halos” around light sources. This symptom is related to the “increased glare” or “seeing halos” symptom we mentioned in part one of this blog, but you may also notice that bright lights hurt your eyes or even cause headaches.

If you’re due for an eye exam, think you might be experiencing any of these cataracts or other symptoms, or are interested in any of the many other services or products we offer, contact Georgia Eye Physicians & Surgeons to schedule an appointment today. Be sure to follow Dr. William Segal and Dr. Marc Lay on Facebook and Twitter for more eye care information, fun facts, and the latest news and updates about eye health.