Blurry Vision? 7 Telltale Signs You Might Have Cataracts (And What to Do Next)

 Cataract Awareness & Care from Lifeview Glaucoma Center

Cataracts are common, but they don’t have to take away the clarity and color of life.

If your vision has become cloudy or colors no longer look as vivid as they once did, you might be experiencing the early signs of cataracts. Cataracts are one of the most common causes of vision loss, especially in adults over 60—but they can develop earlier too.

Fortunately, cataracts are treatable, and early detection is key to protecting your sight.

We’ll walk you through the top signs of cataracts, how they progress, and how trusted care from Lifeview Glaucoma Center, led by Dr. Elisabeth Aponte, can help you see clearly again.

What Are Cataracts?

Cataracts occur when the clear lens of the eye becomes cloudy, causing vision to become blurry, dim, or distorted. This clouding happens gradually and can affect one or both eyes. Cataracts are typically caused by age-related changes, but they can also result from injury, genetics, certain medications, or conditions like diabetes.

7 Warning Signs You May Have Cataracts

1. Blurry or Cloudy Vision

A gradual blurring of your vision is often the earliest sign of cataracts. It may feel like you’re looking through a foggy window, and you might find yourself wiping your glasses, only to realize it’s not the lenses—it's your eyes.

2. Difficulty Seeing at Night

Cataracts scatter light entering your eye, which can make night driving especially dangerous. You may notice headlights appearing dimmer or surrounded by halos.

3. Increased Sensitivity to Light and Glare

Bright sunlight or indoor lighting may start to feel uncomfortable. This light sensitivity can also contribute to headaches and eye strain.

4. Halos Around Lights

One of the most common cataract symptoms is seeing halos or rings around light sources, especially at night. This can affect your depth perception and reaction time.

5. Fading or Yellowing of Colors

Colors may seem dull, faded, or take on a yellowish tint. Cataracts filter the light entering the eye, reducing the intensity of colors over time.

6. Frequent Prescription Changes

Are you changing your glasses or contact lens prescription more often than usual? Rapid shifts in your vision needs could be a sign that cataracts are progressing.

7. Double Vision in One Eye

Double vision or ghosting in one eye (not caused by neurological issues) is a red flag for lens opacity, a hallmark of cataract development.

Who Is at Risk for Cataracts?

While aging is the most common cause, other cataract risk factors include:

• Family history of cataracts

• Smoking and alcohol use

• Excessive UV exposure

• Diabetes and high blood pressure

• Past eye injuries or surgeries

• Long-term use of corticosteroids

When Should You See an Eye Doctor?

If you're noticing any of the signs above, don’t wait. Early diagnosis can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Cataracts don’t go away on their own, and untreated cataracts can eventually lead to severe vision impairment or blindness.

How Lifeview Glaucoma Center Can Help

At Lifeview Glaucoma Center, your eye health is our top priority. Whether you're experiencing the early signs of cataracts, dealing with glaucoma, or simply due for a routine eye exam, our team provides advanced, compassionate care tailored to your needs.

Our practice is led by Dr. Elisabeth Aponte, a board-certified ophthalmologist, cataract surgeon, and fellowship-trained glaucoma specialist. With extensive expertise in both cataract and glaucoma management, Dr. Aponte brings a highly specialized approach to preserving and restoring your vision. She is known not only for her clinical precision but also for the warmth and attentiveness she offers to every patient.

At Lifeview, we use state-of-the-art diagnostic technology to detect cataracts early and offer comprehensive treatment plans. If surgery is necessary, Dr. Aponte will guide you through your options and ensure you receive expert care before, during, and after the procedure.

As part of your treatment, we offer both standard and premium refractive lens implants, allowing you to choose the lens that best aligns with your vision needs and lifestyle—whether you're looking for essential correction or greater visual freedom at varying distances.

Whether you’ve just started noticing cloudy vision or have been managing symptoms for some time, we’re here to help you take the next step toward clearer sight and greater confidence.

Take the First Step Toward Clearer Vision!

Cataracts are common, but they don’t have to take away the clarity and color of life. If you’re experiencing blurry vision, glare, or any of the symptoms mentioned, it’s time to get your eyes checked.

Located in Duluth, Minnesota, Lifeview Glaucoma Center is here to help you protect your sight and see the world with clarity once again.

Schedule your cataract evaluation with Dr. Elisabeth Aponte today.