Customer question:
What are the signs that indicate the presence of cataracts? Anonymous customer's question
Pharmacist's answer:
A cataract, also known as a cataract, is an eye disease in which the eye's natural lens gradually becomes cloudy, leading to reduced visual acuity. The signs that indicate the presence of cataracts are multifaceted and can develop slowly, making it difficult to recognize the problem immediately.
One of the first signs is blurred or foggy vision, which can feel like looking through a dirty window. This blurring worsens over time and affects daily activities such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces. Decreased visual acuity may also occur, making distinguishing fine details or recognizing objects at a distance challenging. In addition, many people notice that colors become less vivid and more yellowish, resulting from changes in the lens's transparency.
Another common sign is increased sensitivity to light and glare. Cataract patients often report that bright lights are uncomfortable or painful, especially at sunset or night when car headlights cause severe glare. This sensitivity can limit night driving and other activities that require good visibility in darker conditions. In addition, light circles or halos may appear around light sources, further disturbing vision.
Double vision or vision with multiple images in one eye is also shared, which can cause confusion and difficulty coordinating eye movements. This phenomenon can be misleading; many do not initially associate it with lens problems. Also, vision can change depending on the lighting, meaning that vision can be good in bright conditions while deteriorating significantly in poor lighting.
Another sign is the need for frequent prescription glasses or contact lenses changes. Patients may find that their vision deteriorates rapidly, and more vital vitals are needed to achieve clear vision. Despite the changes in the glasses, the vision remains blurred, indicating an internal eye problem.
Changes in the field of vision are also a common symptom. Patients may notice trouble seeing objects on the periphery of their visual field or that their peripheral vision appears limited. In rare cases, problems with depth perception may also occur, leading to difficulty judging distance and moving through space.
A white or grayish reflection may appear in the pupil in more advanced stages, visible under direct lighting. This indicates that the lens has become quite cloudy and that medical intervention is needed. In this condition, the eye becomes more sensitive to touch and pressure.
It is essential to visit an ophthalmologist at the first signs of cataracts, who can confirm the diagnosis with the help of specialized examinations and advise appropriate treatment. Although cataracts are not painful, they can significantly affect the quality of life, so early detection and treatment are crucial to preserving vision and preventing complications.
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