Cataracts are one of the most common age-related eye conditions, but their progression can look different for everyone. In the early stages, you might not even notice a significant change in your vision. Over time, however, cataracts can become more advanced, causing cloudy or blurred vision that interferes with everyday activities like reading or driving. Knowing the difference between early and advanced cataracts is key to understanding when it might be time to explore surgical options.
 

What Are Cataracts?

Cataracts occur when the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurry or dim vision. This clouding is typically caused by aging, but other factors such as diabetes, smoking, prolonged exposure to UV rays, or a history of eye injury can also accelerate their development.
 

Early Cataracts

In the early stages, cataracts may have little to no impact on your day-to-day life. You might notice:
 

• Slight blurriness or haziness
• Glare or halos around lights, especially at night
• Colors appearing less vibrant
• A need for frequent changes in glasses or contact lens prescriptions

At this stage, many people manage symptoms with stronger eyeglasses, better lighting, and regular monitoring by their eye doctor.
 

Advanced Cataracts

As cataracts progress, vision can deteriorate significantly. Advanced cataracts can cause:
 

• Noticeable difficulty seeing at night or in low light
• Significant blurring that makes reading or driving challenging
• Difficulty recognizing faces
• Reduced independence in daily tasks

When these symptoms begin to interfere with your quality of life, it may be time to consider cataract surgery.
 

When to Consider Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is typically recommended when the cataract is negatively impacting your ability to perform routine activities. The timing is highly individual and depends on your lifestyle, visual needs, and overall eye health. Our experienced ophthalmologists evaluate your vision and cataract progression to help determine the right time for surgery.
 

Cataract surgery is a safe and highly effective procedure that involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear, artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Many patients report sharper vision and improved quality of life after surgery.
 

Take the Next Step Toward Clearer Vision

If you’ve been diagnosed with cataracts, don’t wait until your vision severely declines to seek help. Regular eye exams can help track changes in your vision and ensure timely intervention. Whether you’re in the early stages or dealing with more advanced symptoms, we are here to guide you every step of the way.
 

Schedule a cataract evaluation with Sacramento Eye Consultants and learn more about your treatment options. Contact our office in Sacramento, Folsom, or Lincoln, California, by calling (916) 915-0300 to book an appointment today.