Cataracts and Night Driving: When Is Surgery Necessary?

Elderly woman with glasses behind the wheel of a car, unsure if she should be driving with cataracts. As cataracts develop with age, they can significantly impair vision, making night driving difficult and unsafe. If you’re experiencing issues like glare or trouble seeing at night, you may be wondering if cataract surgery is necessary for your safety.

At Keamy Eye & Laser Centre, Dr. Jean E. Keamy brings years of expertise in eye care. As a board-certified ophthalmologist, she is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and has trained in advanced cataract surgery techniques. Dr. Keamy completed her surgical training at the renowned Gimbel EyeCentre and is dedicated to providing top-quality care to restore your vision. Let’s explore how cataracts impact night driving and when surgery might be necessary.

How Cataracts Affect Driving at Night

Cataracts develop slowly but can significantly affect your ability to drive safely, especially in low-light conditions. One of the most common symptoms is increased glare from oncoming headlights, making it difficult to focus. You might also notice halos around lights, which can be distracting and dangerous when driving at night. Additionally, cataracts reduce the sharpness of your vision, making it harder to see road signs, pedestrians, or other vehicles.

These symptoms don’t just make driving uncomfortable—they can also be hazardous. Poor night vision increases the risk of accidents, particularly in poorly lit areas. If you live in Westborough, MA, where driving at night may involve navigating rural or suburban roads with limited streetlights, clear vision is essential for safe driving.

When Is Cataract Surgery Necessary?

While glasses or stronger lighting might help in the early stages of cataracts, there comes a point when surgery is the best option. But how do you know it’s time? Here are a few signs that cataracts are significantly affecting your ability to drive, especially at night:

  • Difficulty seeing road signs in low light
  • Glare from oncoming traffic is overwhelming
  • Halos or starbursts around streetlights and headlights
  • Trouble adjusting to the dark after bright light exposure

If these symptoms sound familiar, it may be time to consider cataract surgery. Cataract surgery is a simple and highly effective procedure that replaces the clouded lens with a clear, artificial one, restoring crisp vision. For those facing challenges with night driving, this surgery can significantly enhance clarity and boost confidence on the road.

Protect Yourself and Your Eyes in Westborough, MA

Don’t let cataracts compromise your safety on the road. If night driving has become a challenge, it’s time to explore your options. At Keamy Eye & Laser Centre, we’re here to help restore your vision and improve your quality of life.

Contact us today at 508-836-8733 to schedule a consultation and determine if cataract surgery is right for you. Clear vision is just a phone call away.

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