Cataracts don’t appear overnight — they usually develop slowly, often taking years before vision loss becomes significant. In the earliest stages, you may not notice much change at all. Over time, however, the lens of the eye becomes increasingly cloudy, and tasks that once seemed simple start to feel frustrating. Reading small print, following subtitles on TV, recognizing a friend across the room, or driving at night can all become more challenging. Many patients describe their sight as if they are looking through a fogged-up window — dim, hazy, or muted in color. Even with new glasses, vision may continue to decline because this condition affect the lens itself, not just the prescription.

This gradual progression is why early detection is so important. Identifying this eye condition in their earliest stages gives patients more control, more options for treatment, and greater peace of mind. Dr. Belgrave carefully evaluates not only the presence of lens clouding but also how much they are contributing to symptoms like blurry vision and double vision. Because these same symptoms may also be caused by conditions such as glaucoma or retinal disease, a professional exam ensures that nothing is overlooked and that you receive the right plan for protecting your sight. Maintaining sharp vision also means taking proactive steps toward overall eye health, from regular screenings to protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays and digital strain.