Cataracts are a common experience among aging adults. In fact, according to the National Eye Institute, over half of Americans who are aged 80 or older have cataracts or have had them removed. So, if you’re experiencing cataracts, you’re far from alone.
This eye condition often shows few symptoms in the early stages. But how fast can cataracts get worse? Cataracts typically progress slowly over the years, but everyone is different, and it’s hard to know how fast your cataracts will develop.
Understanding how cataracts develop and getting regular eye exams can help you and your health care team monitor your vision and intervene when necessary.
What Are Cataracts?
A cataract is when the lens of your eye—the clear part that helps focus light—becomes cloudy, making it harder to see clearly. Symptoms may not be noticeable in the early stages of a cataract, but over time, you may notice:
- Fuzzy vision
- Poorer night vision
- Less saturated colors
- Lights are brighter, or halos around lights
- Double vision
- Frequent changes in your eyewear prescription
These symptoms may be signs of another eye condition, so it’s best to have your eyes assessed if you notice them.
Age-related cataracts are the most common type of cataract. However, there are other types of cataracts, such as those that develop from injury or radiation exposure. Cataracts can even happen in children, but this is rare.
How Quickly Do Cataracts Develop?
Cataracts usually develop gradually over several years, but the rate of progression can vary from person to person. They may advance more quickly in people with diabetes, though this isn’t always the case. Since everyone is different, it’s difficult to predict how fast any one person’s cataracts will progress.
Stages of Cataracts
The stages of cataracts exist to help healthcare providers communicate with each other, determine when surgery should happen, or for insurance coverage purposes.
Early Stage
The early stage of cataract development may show very few noticeable symptoms. You may notice minimally blurry vision, more sensitivity to light, eyestrain, and less saturated colors. The lens may only have small, cloudy areas at this point. However, ff you notice these symptoms, make an appointment with your optometrist for early intervention if needed.
Immature Stage
At this stage, the lens is partially clouded, but not completely. You may notice fuzzier vision and find it more challenging to see in dim lighting. You may also notice more glare, halos around lights, and even more muted colors.
Mature Stage
When cataracts get to the mature stage, vision is significantly impaired. Daily activities like reading and driving become more difficult. You may see halos around lights and experience double vision in one eye. At this point, the lens will likely have completely clouded over.
Hypermature Stage
At the hypermature stage, the lens may start to shrink in size and get hard. This means you are at higher risk of inflammation and higher eye pressure. The eyes may appear white, and at this point, there is significant vision loss. Prompt surgery is often required to avoid further complications.
Cataracts: What Else Should You Know?
For many people, cataracts are a natural part of aging. But there are ways you can support your vision as your eyes change.
Risks & Prevention
You may be at a higher risk of developing cataracts if you have:
- Other health conditions, such as diabetes
- A family history of cataracts
- A history of smoking or high alcohol consumption
- Experienced an eye injury or surgery
- Received radiation treatment to your upper body
- Been heavily exposed to the sun
- Used steroids
You can protect yourself against cataracts by:
- Quitting smoking
- Using sun protection, such as sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat, to shield your eyes
- Wearing appropriate eye protection when doing high-risk activities, such as safety goggles when working with heavy machinery
- Maintaining a healthy diet rich in leafy green vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and fruit
Diagnosis & Treatment
Cataracts can be identified through a dilated eye exam. The American Optometric Association recommends that adults aged 65 and older undergo a comprehensive eye exam once a year.
You may be able to manage early cataracts with simple changes. Try using brighter lights or magnifying glasses to help with reading. New prescription eyewear may also help.
If cataracts start to interfere significantly with daily life, you may be referred for cataract surgery. This is typically performed by an ophthalmologist. They will replace your natural clouded lens with an artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL).
Care for Cataracts in Rancho Santa Margarita
Regular eye exams can help you and your eye care team monitor the development of your cataracts. Consult with your optometrist to determine a recommended eye exam frequency tailored to your specific needs.
Total Vision Rancho Santa Margarita offers comprehensive eye exams for the whole family, including children and older adults. Our team’s mission is to help preserve vision throughout life and enhance your vision experience. To learn more about cataracts and how to better take care of your eyes, book an appointment with our team today.
