Seeing Clearly: How Your Optometrist Helps Catch Cataracts Early

June is Cataract Awareness Month, and at Drs. Kopolow and Girsgen, we believe it’s the perfect time to spotlight the important role optometrists play in detecting this common eye condition early—before it clouds more than just your vision.

What Are Cataracts?

Cataracts are a clouding of the eye’s natural lens, usually related to aging, that can lead to blurry vision, difficulty seeing at night, and increased sensitivity to glare. While cataracts are most often seen in people over age 60, early signs can begin developing in your 40s or 50s—sometimes without obvious symptoms.

Left undetected and untreated, cataracts can significantly impair your vision and quality of life. But here’s the good news: with early detection and timely care, the effects of cataracts can be managed very effectively.

Common Symptoms of Cataracts

Cataracts often develop gradually, which means you might not notice the changes right away. However, being aware of the symptoms can help you know when it’s time to get checked. Here are the most common signs to watch for:

   •    Blurry or cloudy vision, like looking through a fogged-up window

   •    Increased glare, especially from headlights or sunlight

   •    Halos around lights

   •    Difficulty seeing at night or in low-light settings

   •    Fading or yellowing of colors

   •    Frequent changes in your eyeglass or contact lens prescription

   •    Double vision in one eye

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an eye exam. Not all vision changes mean you have cataracts—but catching the cause early is key to protecting your sight.

How Optometrists Help Detect Cataracts

While cataracts often require surgical treatment by an ophthalmologist in later stages, your optometrist is your first line of defense in catching them early.

At Drs. Kopolow and Girsgen, our comprehensive eye exams include evaluations that can reveal the subtle, early signs of cataract formation—even before you notice a change in your vision. This allows us to monitor your eyes over time and make timely referrals to ophthalmologists when needed, ensuring your treatment path is seamless and well-coordinated.

We also work with you to adjust your glasses prescription or recommend anti-glare lenses as your visual needs evolve, keeping you as comfortable and clear-sighted as possible at every stage.

Why Early Detection Matters

Catching cataracts early isn’t just about planning for potential surgery in the future. It’s about preserving your quality of life today—whether that’s seeing clearly at work, driving safely at night, or simply enjoying the details of the world around you.

Regular eye exams allow us to:

   •    Monitor changes in your lens clarity

   •    Track how cataracts may be impacting your daily vision

   •    Adjust prescriptions to maintain your visual sharpness

   •    Counsel you on protective steps like UV-blocking lenses to slow progression

Protect Your Sight—Schedule an Exam Today

If it’s been more than a year since your last eye exam—or if you’ve noticed changes like increased glare, difficulty reading, or dimming vision—it’s time to get checked.

Schedule your comprehensive eye exam with Drs. Kopolow and Girsgen, by texting GLASSES to 21000, calling us at (702) 452-2020, or booking an appointment online here.