Cataract Eye Symptoms Often Disrupt Driving Activities

JAKARTA, October 2024 – The eyes are a vital sense of sight for Daihatsu friends while driving. A clear and wide view allows drivers to observe the area ahead, including the blindspot, making the journey feel safer and more comfortable. However, eye health issues, such as cataracts, can disrupt vision and increase risks while driving.

Cataracts are a condition characterized by clouding of the eye's lens, making it difficult for light to penetrate optimally. This causes blurry vision, which can interfere with daily activities, especially when on the road. Understanding the symptoms of cataracts early is crucial to prevent serious complications, such as blindness. Although more common in the elderly, cataracts can affect young people, especially if there is a family history, eye injuries, or certain diseases, such as diabetes.

Recognizing Common Symptoms of Cataracts

Here are some common symptoms of cataracts that are important to recognize, especially for those who often drive:

Blurry and Hazy Vision

Cataracts usually begin with increasingly blurry vision. Distant objects appear blurry, dim, or cloudy. This is caused by protein clumping in the eye's lens that obstructs light entry. This blurry vision often worsens over time, making it difficult for sufferers to recognize objects clearly, especially at a distance.

Sensitivity to Light

Cataract sufferers often experience sensitivity to light. The eyes can become dazzled and feel painful when exposed to bright light sources, especially if coming directly towards the face, such as vehicle headlights. Even normal indoor lighting can seem too bright and disrupt vision.

Double Vision

Clouding of the lens can also cause double or shadowed vision, even with only one eye open. This symptom makes objects appear split or as if there are shadows around the viewed object, which can be very distracting.

Poor Night Vision

Cataracts significantly reduce vision, especially in low light conditions, such as at night. This is similar to night blindness. Cataract sufferers may struggle to see the road clearly and face obstacles when driving at night, which can increase the risk of accidents.

Frequent Changes in Glasses Prescription

Due to the progressive nature of cataracts, vision continues to change over time. Many sufferers feel the need to change their glasses prescription more frequently, but these changes only provide a temporary solution. If you find that your glasses prescription keeps changing, it could be an early sign of cataracts.

Also Read: The Dangers of Microsleep While Driving! Here are 4 Tips to Overcome It

How to Address Cataracts That Disrupt Driving Activities?

If you experience some of the above symptoms, consult an eye doctor immediately for an accurate diagnosis. Prompt treatment can prevent the condition from worsening and minimize the risk of vision loss. Maintaining eye health and regularly checking vision is an important step for comfort and safety while driving.

Untreated cataract symptoms can become serious obstacles, especially for drivers who need focus and clarity of vision on the road. By understanding the early signs of cataracts and taking appropriate preventive measures, the risk of serious complications can be avoided, ensuring that driving activities remain safe and comfortable.