The most common cataract symptom is cloudy or blurred vision - as if you’re looking through a dirty windshield or a frosted window.

Other vision changes may include:

• Double-vision or ghosting of images.

• Difficulty reading small print and driving at night.

• Reduced night vision and difficulty seeing when in poorly lit areas.

• Experiencing glare and seeing ‘halos’ around lights.

• Seeing bright colours as faded, dim or yellow.

• More frequent changes to your spectacle or contact lens prescription.

Cataract treatment typically involves surgically removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL). The surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis and typically takes less than an hour. The surgery is typically done under local anesthesia, usually with some form of conscious sedation, so you are partially awake but don't feel any pain. After the surgery, you will need to wear an eye patch or shield and use eye drops for several weeks. Most people can return to their normal activities within a few days after the surgery.

Many years ago, when cataract surgery was a fairly new procedure, the preferred treatment protocol was to operate cataracts only once they had matured, or 'ripened'. This was because the procedure was often associated with various complications.

Modern cataract surgery is associated with much lower complication rates and outcomes are far more predictable. As such, it is preferred to operate cataracts when they become symptomatic, especially when they begin to negatively affect a patient's quality of life. 

If you have a cataract and are struggling with your vision, you may be a good candidate for cataract surgery.