Cataracts typically occur in older individuals over the age of 40. Basically, they are a natural cloudiness that form over the eyes’ lens. They plague millions of people each year, though cataract eye surgery isn’t always a must.

More minor forms of cataracts can be overcome with a pair of prescription glasses. Doctors will often monitor them to determine if and when surgery is needed.In many cases, patients go years without requiring surgery.

Yet when cataracts reach the point of interfering gravely with a person’s eyesight, surgery to remove them should be strongly considered, especially under the following circumstances.

1. Cataracts Are Interfering with Your Daily Routine

Symptoms of a worsening cataract include dim, blurry or yellow-tinged vision. One particularly problematic symptom is double vision in one eye, as this can lead to dizziness and disorientation.

When these symptoms begin to interfere with the things you love doing, such as reading, board games, cooking, sewing and exercise, it could be time to consider surgery.

2. Cataracts Are Preventing You from Driving Safely at Night

When cataracts begin to interfere with nighttime driving, it’s a sign that their development has reached a dangerous stage. If you start seeing halos around lights or find yourself squinting in low-light driving conditions, your cataracts are probably getting quite bad.

Usually, it’s unsafe to drive in such conditions. If your cataracts are sufficiently advanced, they could prevent you from passing a basic driver’s test due to their interference with your vision.

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