Cataracts are a common age-related eye condition that is characterized by clouding of the lens, which leads to blurry or hazy vision. Here are some signs and symptoms associated with cataracts.

1. Blurred Vision: Cataracts often cause blurry vision, making it difficult to see objects clearly. It may be similar to looking through a foggy or cloudy window.

2. Difficulty with Night Vision: People with cataracts may experience incrased difficultly seeing in low-light conditions, such as at night. Glare from oncoming headliglhts or streetlights may also be more problematic.

3. Sensitivity to Light: Cataracts can cause sensitivity to bright lights in dark environments. You may notice increased glare or a halo effect around lights.

4. Faded or Dull Colors: Cataracts can affect the perception of colors, making them appear faded or less vibrant. You may have difficulty distinguishing between certain shades of colors or notice that you seem to have a yellowish tinge to your vision.

5. Frequent Changes in Glasses Prescription: If you find that you need to upgrade your glasses prescription more frequently, it could be a sign that cataracts are now affecting your vision.

6. Double Vision: Cataracts can cause double vision or multiple images in one eye, which may not be resolved by closing the other eye.

7. Poor Depth Perception: Cataracts can impact depth perception, making it challenging to judge distances accurately. This can affect acitivties such as driving or climbing stairs.

While there is no known way to prevent or reverse cataracts through self-care, there are certain measures you can take to help manage the condition and maintain good eye health.

Here are some tips for managing cataracts:

1. Regular Eye Eams: Schedule regular comprehensive eye health examinations. The doctor can monitor the progression of your cataracts and recommend appropriate treatment options.

2. Proper Lighting: Ensure adequate lighting in your living and work environments. Use brighter lights to minimize glare to improve contrast.

3. Sunglasses: Wear sunglasses with UV protection. UV light contributes to cataract development.

4. Manage Diabetes: If you have diabetes, it is crucial to manage your blood sugar levels. High blood sugar levels can increase the risk in development cataracts.

5. Quit Smoking: Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of cataract formation.

6. Diet: Maintain a healthy and balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, and food rich in antioxidants, such as leafy greens, citrus fruits and colorful vegetables.

7. Eye Protection: When engaging in activities that pose a risk of eye injury, such as sports, construction, or yardwork, you should wear protective eyewear. Eye injuries can increase the likelihood of developing traumatic cataracts.

8. Vision Correction: Update your eyeglasses or contact lens prescription as recommended by your eye care professional. Adjustments to your prescription can improve your vision and compensate for the effects of cataracts.

Stacy Turner, OD and the staff at Eldorado Vision & Optical in McKinney, Texas are committed to providing the finest in eye care services for every pateint. A Comprehesive Eye Health Examination will ensure that you know the health of your eyes. If during your eye examination it is determined that you have cataracts, Dr. Turner will assess the extent of vision loss, and if necessary, will refer you to a Cataract Surgeon who will provide you with cataract removal and intraocular lens implantation options. Following cataract surgery and release from the surgeon, Dr. Turner will continue with your eye health care.