How Do You Know If You Have Cataracts?

Cataracts can make everyday tasks, such as driving at night or reading, increasingly challenging. The good news is that with an accurate diagnosis and treatment from an experienced ophthalmologist, it is possible to restore both vision and quality of life. 

 Common cataract symptoms and signs include blurred or cloudy vision, difficulty seeing at night, sensitivity to light and glare, halos around lights, a sudden change in vision prescription, and a fading or yellowing of colors. 

Clewner & Kelly Eye Center is dedicated to providing advanced solutions, including laser cataract surgery, to patients in Boca Raton, FL. Call to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward clear, focused vision. 

What causes cloudy vision? 

Before exploring treatment options like laser cataract surgery, it's important to understand their underlying causes. So, what causes cloudy vision? It occurs when proteins in the lens of the eye break down and clump together. This is a natural part of the aging process and typically begins developing after the age of 40. However, other factors can increase the risk of cataract formation, including:  

• Family history of cataracts 
• Excessive sun exposure without UV protection 
• Diabetes, a condition linked to faster cataract development 
• Smoking, which accelerates lens clouding 
• Certain medications, like prolonged use of corticosteroids 

Recognizing cataract symptoms and signs 

Cataracts develop gradually and may go unnoticed until they interfere with daily activities. Here are some key symptoms to watch for:  

• Blurred or cloudy vision: If it feels like you're looking through a foggy or dirty window, this could be an early indicator of cataracts. 
• Difficulty seeing at night: Struggling with nighttime driving due to poor visibility or glare from headlights may indicate cataracts. 
• Sensitivity to light: Increased sensitivity to bright light or glare can be a sign of cataracts forming in the lenses. 
• Halos around lights: Seeing halos or glowing rings around light sources, especially at night, is another common symptom. 
• Sudden change in vision prescription: A sudden or frequent need to update your glasses or contact lens prescription could mean that cataracts are affecting your vision. 
• Fading or yellowing colors: Colors appearing dull or yellowed can be caused by cataracts, making it harder to see fine details. 

Cataracts are progressive and will not improve without treatment. If you are experiencing any of these signs, contact Clewner & Kelly Eye Center in Boca Raton, FL right away to book an eye examination. 

About laser cataract surgery 

For those diagnosed with cataracts, laser cataract surgery is a popular and effective treatment option. This advanced procedure uses a laser to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with an artificial one. 

Benefits of laser cataract surgery compared to traditional cataract surgery:  

• Precise incisions for better outcomes 
• Minimal discomfort with fewer complications 
• Shorter recovery time, so you can get back to doing what you love faster 
• Ability to address additional vision problems like astigmatism 

Patients often report improvements in their vision within 24 hours. And with proper care, results are long-lasting. 

Get clear vision free from cataracts 

What causes cloudy vision, and what are the best steps for treatment? Whether you're experiencing cataract symptoms and signs like halos around lights or a sudden change in vision prescription, it's important to seek professional care. 

At Clewner & Kelly Eye Center, our experienced ophthalmologists are here to guide you through the process of laser cataract surgery. Contact us today to schedule an appointment in Boca Raton, FL.