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Cataracts
What
are the symptoms of cataracts?
A
cataract is a cloudy area in the lens of the eye that interferes
with vision. Cataracts may be
caused by a number of factors, including age, injury, and
certain diseases. Vision loss from cataracts is generally slow
and painless, but it is progressive and may require treatment.
The following symptoms may indicate the presence of cataracts:
·
Cloudy or foggy vision
· Blurry or distorted vision
· Changes in color vision
· Frequent increases in eyeglass or contact lens prescriptions
· Poor night vision (especially affected by headlights)
· Progressive loss of vision
· Halos or glare around lights
· Double vision
· A white or "milky" spot over the pupil of
the eye
Worsening
vision, trouble with night vision, and problems with halos or
glare are the most common and distinctive symptoms of cataracts.
What
should a person with symptoms do?
Because
cataracts can interfere with vision-eventually quite significantly-people
who exhibit symptoms should schedule an appointment with an
ophthalmologist. A qualified doctor can make an accurate diagnosis
and review treatment options
with the patient. Though not all patients require it, cataract
surgery can prove to be a relatively safe and effective
option for many people with cataracts.
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