Cataract Self-Assessment · Cedar Park & Austin, TX
Do I Have Cataracts?
As cataracts form, many people won't even notice their vision starting to blur because it starts small and happens gradually. Because we use our eyes almost constantly every day, it's common to naturally adapt to this gradual process as it begins.
Symptom Checklist
Common Signs of Cataracts
Below is a list of common signs people might first experience as a result of cataracts. If you notice two or more, we recommend scheduling a comprehensive eye exam.
When driving, I notice more corners and intersections that seem to lack sufficient light.
At night, rings around lights make it harder to see what else is in their direction.
At night, I often find myself needing to move toward light to see or read things.
Direct sunlight and the glare of bright lights are becoming more painful to my eyes.
The bright blues in my life seem to have vanished in favor of greyed, greenish, or muted tones.
Things that used to be bright white now look greyed out or yellowish.
The world feels like it is becoming increasingly cloudy and dim.
If you checked 2 or more items, schedule a comprehensive eye exam. Only a dilated eye exam performed by an ophthalmologist can definitively diagnose cataracts.
Are You at Risk?
Cataract Risk Factors
Age 55+
Most cataracts are age-related and begin developing after 55, becoming more common after 65.
Family history
A parent or sibling with early cataracts increases your risk of developing them sooner.
Sun exposure
Long-term UV exposure without sunglasses accelerates protein clouding in the lens.
Diabetes
Elevated blood sugar speeds up lens protein changes, often causing cataracts earlier.
Smoking
Smokers have twice the risk of developing nuclear cataracts as non-smokers.
Prior eye injury
Trauma or previous eye surgery can cause cataracts years later.
When to Act
When Should I Have Cataract Surgery?
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and suspect you may be showing some initial signs of cataracts, please schedule an appointment immediately. People often wait too long, letting the effects sneak up on them — waiting until something bad happens before getting their condition checked.
Remember, cataracts can not only place you and others at much greater risk — especially while driving at night — but they also share symptoms with other serious and life-threatening conditions.
Book a Comprehensive Eye Exam
Our board-certified ophthalmologists will evaluate your lens health and discuss treatment options — including advanced laser cataract surgery.