What happens if the cataract is not treated?
If cataracts are left untreated, they can lead to progressive vision loss and various complications that can significantly impact your daily life. Here are some potential consequences of untreated cataracts:
- Vision Impairment: Cataracts cause the lens of the eye to become cloudy, resulting in blurred, hazy, or distorted vision.
- Difficulty with Night Vision: Cataracts can increase sensitivity to glare and reduce the ability to see in low-light conditions, such as at night or in dimly lit environments. This can make driving at night particularly challenging and unsafe.
- Color Distortion: Advanced cataracts may cause colors to appear faded, less vibrant, or even yellowed. This can affect your ability to appreciate and differentiate between different colors.
- Increased Sensitivity to Glare: Cataracts scatter light entering the eye, causing glare from bright lights and sunlight. This glare can be uncomfortable and make it difficult to see clearly in certain lighting conditions.
- Double Vision: Cataracts can lead to double vision or ghosting of images, especially in one eye. This can make depth perception and coordination difficult.
- Risk of Falls and Accidents: Decreased visual acuity due to untreated cataracts can increase the risk of accidents, falls, and injuries, particularly in older individuals.
- Development of Secondary Issues: Advanced cataracts can contribute to the development of other eye problems, such as glaucoma (increased pressure within the eye), which can further worsen vision and lead to additional complications.
- Reduced Quality of Life: Untreated cataracts can significantly reduce your overall quality of life, limiting your independence and ability to engage in activities you enjoy.
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