If you’ve developed cataracts, you aren’t alone. The American Academy of Ophthalmology estimates that more than 24 million Americans over the age of 40 have cataracts. Not all patients need cataract removal surgery to improve vision, but some do. So what are some signs you need cataract surgery? Peña Eye Institute has you covered.
The vision team at our offices in McAllen and Harlingen, TX, have come up with five sure signs you need to get your untreated cataracts surgically removed.
Key Early Warnings Signs of Cataracts
Here are some of the most common signs of cataracts:
- Blurry vision
- Dimming vision
- Fading color vision
- Reduced night vision
- Light sensitivity
- Glare and halos
- Double vision in one eye
- Frequent changes in vision prescription
- Cloudiness of the eye
This should give you an idea of why cataract treatment is so important.
If you’re interested and want a little more info about this condition, we covered the causes and risk factors of cataracts a few months ago.
1. It’s Difficult for You to Read or Do Close Up Work
If you need more light to read, sew, do puzzles, or perform any sort of close-up work, it’s likely that you need glasses. Be mindful of any eye strain or eye fatigue while checking your phone and doing things you used to take for granted before cataracts formed.
2. You Struggle Watching Movies and Looking at Screens
Cataracts can make it difficult to read your text messages, watch movies, or look up information on your computer or tablet. This change in your vision prescription is a signal that your cataracts are getting worse.
3. Your Vision Has a Negative Impact on Your Work
Has your productivity decreased at your job? Is work getting harder because you strain to see? Chances are your cataracts are to blame.
4. Driving Has Started Feeling Dangerous
With decreased night vision and changes to overall vision quality, driving your car can be extremely dangerous because of cataracts. This is especially important to consider if you often commute.
5. Your Eyes Appear Cloudy or Milky
In addition to affecting your vision quality, cataracts can cause a smoky or cloudy circle to appear in your eyes. This can affect your appearance and lead to self-consciousness and problems with self-esteem.
What Are the Consequences of Delaying Cataract Surgery Too Long?
If you don’t get your cataracts removed as they get worse, you could be putting your quality of life, your job, and even your overall well-being at risk.
An Eye Doctor Can Examine Your Cataracts
Rather than waiting to get your cataracts treated, it’s a good idea to attend regular eye exams so a doctor can monitor the development of cataracts and other issues.
At our eye care offices in McAllen and Harlingen, TX, we can assess the current state of your vision and recommend the right treatment for you. Cataract surgery may not be necessary if we diagnose the condition early and help you focus on preventative care.
Paying for Your Cataract Surgery
If you’ve been delaying cataract surgery because you’re worried about the cost, we accept CareCredit®, which provides low-interest and no-interest financing to cover out-of-pocket expenses. We can work with you so you get the treatment you need without putting a financial burden on your household.
Contact Our Vision Offices in the Rio Grande Valley
Ready to discuss your options for cataract treatment? We encourage you to contact our eye care centers today. We’re proud to help patients all over Cameron and Hidalgo Counties. Call us in McAllen at (956) 661-8733 and in Harlingen at (956) 264-1200.
