Cataracts are the leading cause of vision impairment in Canada, affecting nearly 2.5 million people. Despite how common they are, especially as we age, many people are surprised to find out that they have cataracts, often because symptoms develop slowly. The good news? Cataracts are treatable, and your optometrist plays a vital role.
In this article, we’ll explore:
- What cataracts are and why early detection matters
- The first signs of cataracts you shouldn’t ignore
- How optometrists diagnose and manage cataracts
- Why regular eye exams are essential for lifelong vision health
What Are Cataracts?
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which is located just behind the coloured iris. Aging is a leading cause of cataracts because over time, the proteins in the lens begin to break down and clump together, leading to blurry, dim, or hazy vision. Left untreated, cataracts can interfere with reading, driving, or even recognizing faces.
While cataracts can’t be prevented, certain things like UV protection can slow their growth.
First Signs of Cataracts You Shouldn’t Ignore
Cataracts develop gradually, which means people often don’t notice changes until their vision is already affected. Recognizing the early warning signs is key:
The First Signs of Cataracts:
- Increased sensitivity to glare, especially while driving at night
- Difficulty seeing clearly in dim lighting
- Colours appearing more yellowed or faded
- Frequent changes in your eyeglass prescription
If any of these sound familiar, don’t wait. Book an eye exam with your optometrist. They can detect cataracts long before your daily life is affected.
The Optometrist’s Role in Cataract Care
During your eye exam with your optometrist, if they find cataracts in your eyes, they will help you in three different stages of your cataract journey:
1. Early Detection During Routine Exams
Using their specialized diagnostic tools, optometrists can spot cataracts before you notice symptoms. This allows for early intervention and planning.
2. Helping You Understand and Manage Your Condition
Once cataracts are found, your optometrist will:
- Monitor how quickly they’re progressing
- Discuss how symptoms are affecting your daily activities
- Advise on when surgery is necessary for you
- Recommend lifestyle adjustments, improved lighting, and updated prescriptions to manage vision in the meantime
3. Coordinating Surgery and Long-Term Follow-Up
When surgery is appropriate, your optometrist will:
- Refer you to an ophthalmologist
- Help you understand your intraocular lens (IOL) options
- Provide post-surgery follow-up care
- Continue monitoring your overall eye health, including risks of other age-related conditions
This collaborative approach ensures continuity of care before, during, and after surgery.
Why Early Diagnosis Makes a Difference
Many people wait until cataracts have seriously affected their vision before seeking help, but waiting too long can have serious consequences. Cataracts can increase the risk of falls, accidents, and a loss of independence, especially for older adults. On top of that, in many parts of Ontario, wait times for cataract surgery can be quite long. If you delay seeing your optometrist until your vision becomes a real problem, you may face an even longer and more difficult wait for treatment. Early diagnosis can make a big difference and your optometrist is here to help before it gets to that point.
The best way to catch cataracts early? Routine, comprehensive eye exams. Optometrists can also identify other eye conditions that don’t show symptoms until vision is damaged, like glaucoma or macular degeneration.
Cataracts Are Common. Losing Vision Doesn’t Have to Be.
Cataracts may be part of the natural ageing process, but losing your vision isn’t inevitable. With early detection and guidance from your optometrist, you can take charge of your eye health and maintain your quality of life.
If your vision has changed, or if it’s been over a year since your last eye exam, it’s time to take action. Don’t wait for your world to become blurry. Your optometrist is here to help you see clearly every step of the way.
Book an eye exam today and protect your vision for tomorrow.
See Life Clearly