Posted by: Erin Ong in Eye Health & Vision Care
When I talk with patients about cataracts, I often start by saying that the earliest signs are usually very subtle. You may not wake up one day with blurry vision. Instead, things change slowly, and you might just feel that your eyes are not working quite the way they used to. That is usually where the conversation begins.
How Early Cataracts Usually Start
During an exam, I might shine a light in your eye and explain that the natural lens is starting to look a little cloudy. At this stage, you may not notice anything dramatic, but you might tell me that reading feels a little harder or that bright sunlight seems stronger than before.
Many patients say something like, “I can still see, but it just doesn’t feel as sharp.” That is often an early sign.
You may also notice changes when driving at night. Headlights can seem more glaring, or lights may have a slight glow around them. These little changes can be easy to brush off, but they are often the first hints that a cataract is forming.
What Patients Commonly Mention
When we talk during the exam, patients will often say things such as, “I need more light to read,” or, “Driving at night is more uncomfortable.” Others mention that menus in dim restaurants are harder to see and their glasses aren’t working as well as they used to.
If you tell me you are relying on brighter lamps at home, or that driving at night feels more stressful than before, those clues help me understand how the lens changes are affecting your daily life.
Why It Helps to Catch These Changes Early
If I see early cataract changes during your exam, it does not mean you need surgery right away. What it does mean is that we can start keeping an eye on things together. I can explain how quickly they seem to be forming and whether simple adjustments, like new glasses or better lighting, might help you feel more comfortable for now.
We also talk about safety, especially if glare is affecting driving. Early monitoring helps us plan your care before cataracts begin affecting your confidence or quality of life.
What Happens During the Exam
When you come in, we usually begin by checking your vision in different lighting. Then I examine the lens closely. If I see early clouding, I will let you know. We may also do images and dilation to check the lens, optic nerve, and retina.
When You Should Come In
If you are starting to notice more glare, if colors look a little less vibrant, or if reading requires brighter light, it is a good idea to schedule a visit. Any feeling that your vision is not as clear or dependable as before deserves attention. Even small changes matter when they affect everyday activities.
You never have to wait until vision is “bad enough.” It is always easier to understand what is happening early on.
Final Thoughts
During your exam, my goal is to help you understand what you are experiencing and why it is happening. Cataracts are very common, but the early signs can feel confusing. Talking through the symptoms together gives you the clarity you need and allows us to plan next steps at a pace that feels comfortable.
If you are noticing any of these changes, I would be happy to take a closer look and help you understand exactly what is going on with your vision. You can request a visit with me here: Schedule a visit, or call our office.
Author:
Erin Ong, M.D., M.S.
Board-Certified Ophthalmologist
Eye Specialists and Surgeons of Northern Virginia