2 Signs That Cataracts Are Affecting Your Ability To Drive At Night

If you have always needed glasses to see while you are driving, you may have noticed that you are having extra trouble lately, especially at night. While it is possible that you need a change in your prescription because objects have become blurrier, you should also be on the lookout for other signs while driving at night that could indicate that you have developed cataracts.

1.  Your Eyes Are More Sensitive to Sudden, Bright Light

Driving at night can be a challenge for anyone. Not only is it dark, but the sudden bursts of light from oncoming vehicles, buildings, and street lights can temporarily interfere with a person's vision. However, if you have cataracts, this problem is compounded.

The cloudy buildup inside of your eyes' lenses makes you even more sensitive to light than usual. The cloudiness absorbs and refracts the light, making the light even more intense. When you come upon a bright street light or have a car's headlights come from the other direction and directly shine on your face, you are temporarily blinded.

While the eyes usually bounce back from this blinding effect, cataracts can make the recovery slower. This can become dangerous, since in the few seconds that you cannot see you run the risk of striking an unseen object or another vehicle.

2.  Cataracts Create Halos Around Illuminated Objects

Along with the increased blinding effect caused by cataracts, another sign that you may have cataracts is when you start seeing halos around any object that is illuminated by available light sources. Because of the light refraction caused by the cloudy buildup, everything may appear as though there is a circular glow around it.

While seeing one or two objects with halos may not seem like such a big deal, the problem increases when you see multiple items with halos. These halos start to blur together to make it difficult to see. And, as the halos merge, they create blind spots where you may not be able to see other vehicles or objects before it is too late.

However, halos can be indicative of other eye problems. You will need to have your eyes checked so that the issue can be treated properly.  

If you are having the above issues while driving at night, there is a possibility that you have cataracts. Make an appointment with an eye doctor who can examine your eyes to determine whether or not this is the case so that they can discuss any treatment options with you. For more help, reach out to a company such as Quality Eye Care today.