When you have a cataract, the natural lens of your eye becomes cloudy, and because of this, the lens is more difficult to see through. Cataracts can cause blurry vision, seeing double, and problems with night vision. You may also notice that bright colors appear dull.  Another common symptom of cataracts is dim vision, which makes it seem like the lights have been dimmed in the room. Here are some options that may help treat your dim and blurry vision if you have cataracts. 

Magnification, Prescription Change, And Light

A conservative treatment option for cataract-related dim and blurry vision is to use a magnifying glass or even special magnifying glasses to help you read. People with cataracts are often unable to enjoy reading because they are unable to see small print. Magnification, while it may not enhance the clarity of the letters on the pages, will make them bigger, and subsequently, easier to see. Another effective treatment option for dim and blurry vision is having your optometrist increase the strength of your glasses.

The strength of your glasses can be increased for both near vision and far vision, which can greatly reduce your symptoms. In addition, wearing reading glasses with small lights attached to them or using a penlight can help with dim vision. You can also use a flashlight to help brighten your environment. Even though you may have all the lights on in your home, your vision may still seem dim and dark. Adding an extra light source, such as a flashlight, may help brighten up pathways and stairs to keep you from falling.

Cataract Surgery

While the above interventions for dim and blurry vision can help you see better, they are not permanent solutions. Cataract surgery is a long-term treatment option for eliminating the signs and symptoms of cataracts. During cataract surgery, your doctor will remove your cataract and replace it with a clear implant. Once the cloudy lens has been removed and replaced with the intraocular implant, your vision will be clear and bright.

Cataract surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that is performed in an outpatient surgical center. Local anesthesia is used for the procedure and you will be able to go home shortly after your surgery. You will wear an eyeshield over your eye for a week or so to help prevent injuries. Visual improvement from cataract surgery is typically very dramatic and you may notice a significant difference in your vision after only a day.

If you have dim or blurry vision, make an appointment with your eye doctor. A simple dilated eye examination can reveal the presence of cataracts. When diagnosed and treated with cataract surgery, you may not need to rely on your glasses for driving, reading, and watching television. Cataract treatment may also help prevent your risk for injuries and falls and allow you to pursue new hobbies.

Contact a local optometrist to learn more about cataract treatment.