If you're experiencing symptoms of cataracts or want an eye check-up, My Health Assistant can help you connect with trusted health professionals near me. Visit www.myha.co.uk to search, compare, and book appointments with optometrists, ophthalmologists, and GPs in your area. Take control of your eye health with expert support today.
Cataracts are a common condition that cause clouding of the eye’s natural lens, leading to blurred or impaired vision. They usually develop slowly and can affect one or both eyes, making everyday tasks like reading, driving, or recognising faces more difficult. Fortunately, cataracts are treatable, especially with early detection. If you're searching for health professionals near me, My Health Assistant can help you find expert eye care quickly and easily.
A cataract occurs when proteins in the eye’s lens clump together, forming a cloudy area that blocks or distorts light entering the eye. This prevents clear vision and, if left untreated, can lead to significant visual impairment or even blindness.
Cataracts are most commonly associated with ageing, but they can also occur due to injury, illness, or genetic factors.
Cataracts often develop slowly, so symptoms may be subtle at first. Common signs include:
Cloudy, blurry, or dim vision
Sensitivity to light or glare
Difficulty seeing at night
Fading or yellowing of colours
Seeing “halos” around lights
Frequent changes in glasses or contact lens prescriptions
Double vision in one eye
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, an eye exam is the best way to confirm a diagnosis.
The most common cause of cataracts is ageing, but other factors can increase your risk, including:
Family history of cataracts
Diabetes
Long-term exposure to sunlight (UV radiation)
Smoking
Excessive alcohol consumption
Previous eye surgery or injury
Prolonged use of corticosteroid medications
Understanding your risk can help you take steps to protect your eye health.
You should book an eye exam or see a doctor if:
Your vision becomes blurry or hazy
You’re struggling with night vision or bright lights
Your glasses are no longer improving your sight
Daily activities like reading or driving are becoming difficult
You have diabetes or a family history of cataracts
Early diagnosis ensures the most effective treatment options are available.
If you're looking for health professionals near me to diagnose or treat cataracts, you may see:
Optometrists – for eye exams, monitoring, and referrals
Ophthalmologists – for medical diagnosis, surgery, and advanced treatment
GPs (General Practitioners) – for initial concerns and onward referral
Opticians – to help adjust your glasses as vision changes
A collaborative approach ensures accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.
Without treatment, cataracts can lead to:
Progressive vision loss
Loss of independence due to impaired vision
Increased risk of falls or accidents
Emotional and mental health challenges due to reduced quality of life
Potential blindness if completely untreated
Seeking help early can maintain your vision and protect your overall wellbeing.
While lifestyle changes and updated prescriptions may help in early stages, the only effective long-term treatment for cataracts is surgery.
Treatment options include:
Prescription glasses or magnifiers – for early-stage cataracts
Lifestyle adjustments – like brighter lighting or UV-protective sunglasses
Cataract surgery – a common and safe procedure where the cloudy lens is replaced with a clear artificial one
Cataract surgery is typically quick, with high success rates and minimal recovery time.
Cataracts are a common and treatable condition that can significantly affect your quality of life if left untreated. With early detection and simple surgical treatment, most people experience a full restoration of clear vision. Use My Health Assistant to find experienced health professionals near me and take the first step toward brighter, clearer sight.
