What Is Night Vision Like with Cataracts?

Cataracts are an age-related eye disorder that generally begins developing between the ages of 40 and 50. The cause is a deterioration of proteins in the eye’s normally transparent lens. But as the proteins degrade, they join into cloudy clumps that block light from penetrating the lens and reaching the retina at the rear of the eye. The result is progressive vision loss, culminating in total blindness if treatment is not sought out.

Fortunately, treatments come in various forms and have been proven to be safe and effective. And our team at Baton Rouge Eye Physicians can help protect and restore your vision, so please contact us today to learn more in Baton Rouge, LA.

What are the symptoms of cataracts?

The first sign of cataracts may be a gradual dimming of one’s vision, which is not corrected or improved by their current prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses. Additional symptoms can include a general yellowish tint or the appearance of visual disruptions like glare or halos. However, cataracts do not cause any pain, and they develop gradually, which means that patients may not even notice their effects for many years. And while cataracts generally begin forming between the ages of 40 and 50, many patients do not actually suffer visual problems until they are in their 60s.

Additionally, multiple other factors affect the development rate of cataracts. For example, cataract formation may be accelerated by certain lifestyle factors, such as tobacco use, excessive or frequent drinking, and sun exposure. Numerous medications may also impact this age-related ocular condition, as well as overall health. Therefore, those with various underlying conditions, such as diabetes, would do well to schedule routine eye exams.

Earlier detection and diagnosis can help you enjoy a better outcome and limit vision loss. We’re also happy to offer our Baton Rouge patients several treatment options. During their earlier stages, cataracts may be treated with prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses. But once they advance, laser or traditional cataract surgery may be required to restore one’s vision and prevent the formation of future cataracts.

What is night vision like with cataracts?

By clouding your eye’s lens, cataracts obscure your vision and cause poorer visual acuity in basically all conditions. This may be especially disruptive at night, as patients with cataracts may find it challenging or almost impossible to see in dim or dark conditions.

Therefore, it’s no surprise that these patients may struggle in low-light conditions, especially when going from a more well-lit environment to a darker one, such as a movie theater, or stepping outside at nighttime. More importantly, cataracts can keep patients from driving at night, making this ocular condition a very exasperating one. Worse yet, it will not get better or go away on its own. In fact, leaving cataracts untreated will only lead to additional vision loss and, eventually, total blindness.

Enjoy better vision with personalized cataract treatments in Baton Rouge

Cataracts can be a disruptive disorder. And, as an age-related condition, they may afflict even those who adhere to the ideal eye care habits in Baton Rouge, LA. But, even though cataracts may be the world’s leading cause of blindness, the treatments are well-practiced, safe, and effective. To find out how we can help restore your vision, or if you have any other concerns or questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our experienced team at Baton Rouge Eye Physicians.