How Do Cataracts Affect Your Night Vision?

Cataracts develop gradually, clouding your eye’s natural lens and making everyday activities more difficult. One of the earliest and most frustrating symptoms you may notice is trouble seeing at night. If driving in the dark feels increasingly challenging due to glare, halos around lights, or difficulty distinguishing objects, cataracts may be the cause. Fortunately, ophthalmologist Dr. W. John W. Murrell specializes in cataract surgery to help you see clearly at night once again.

Why Cataracts Make Night Vision Worse

Cataracts scatter light as it enters the eye, reducing contrast sensitivity and making bright lights seem overwhelming. This is particularly problematic in low-light conditions, such as driving at night when streetlights, headlights, and traffic signals create glare. When you have cataracts, you may also experience halos or starburst effects around lights, which can obscure your vision and make it difficult to judge distances.

As cataracts progress, your night vision deteriorates further. Dim environments, such as restaurants or theaters, can feel especially dark, and reading small text in poor lighting may become a struggle. Over time, the reduced ability to see in low-light settings can affect confidence in night driving and limit independence.

When to Consider Cataract Surgery

If night vision problems are affecting your daily routine, it may be time to consider cataract surgery. Cataract surgery replaces the clouded lens with a clear artificial lens, restoring sharper vision and reducing issues like glare and halos. Many patients report an immediate improvement in their ability to see in dim lighting, making activities such as driving at night much safer and more comfortable.

Modern cataract surgery also offers the option of advanced intraocular lenses (IOLs), which can correct vision at multiple distances, reducing or even eliminating the need for glasses. Patients who struggle with both cataracts and astigmatism may benefit from specialized IOLs designed to improve clarity in all lighting conditions.

Get Back to Clearer Vision

If cataracts make it harder to see at night, seeking expert care is important. Dr. Murrell is a graduate of Tufts University School of Medicine and attendee of the top ophthalmology conferences in the country. He offers advanced cataract surgery options here in Amarillo, TX that can restore clarity and improve night vision. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about your treatment options and take the first step toward seeing clearly again. Call 806-351-1177.