Blurry Vision or Faded Colours? Early Cataract Signs That Are Often Ignored

Have things started to look slightly cloudy lately? Do colours feel dull or washed out, even in bright light? Many people brush this off as ageing or eye strain, but these could be early signs of cataracts.

Cataracts develop slowly, which is why they are often ignored until vision becomes seriously affected. At Oswal Eye Care, we see many patients who wish they had addressed these changes sooner. Understanding cataracts early can help you protect your vision and plan treatment at the right time.

What Is a Cataract?

A cataract occurs when the natural lens of your eye becomes cloudy. This lens is normally clear and helps focus light so you can see sharp images. When it becomes cloudy, vision turns blurry, hazy, or dim.

Cataracts usually develop with age, but they can also appear earlier due to diabetes, long-term steroid use, eye injuries, or excessive sun exposure. Cataracts do not improve on their own and gradually worsen if left untreated.

Early Signs of Cataracts People Often Ignore

Cataracts do not cause pain in the early stages, which is why they go unnoticed. Common early symptoms include:

• Blurry or foggy vision that does not improve with new glasses
• Faded or yellowish colours
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Increased glare from headlights or bright lights
• Frequent changes in spectacle power
• Double vision in one eye

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to get an eye check-up instead of waiting for vision to worsen.

Cataract Treatment Without Surgery: Is It Possible?

Many patients ask if cataract treatment without surgery is possible. Unfortunately, there is no medicine, eye drop, or lifestyle change that can remove a cataract once it forms.

In very early stages, stronger glasses and better lighting may help temporarily. However, the only permanent and effective treatment for cataracts is cataract surgery.

What Is Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery is a safe and commonly performed procedure where the cloudy natural lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens called an intraocular lens.

Modern cataract surgery is quick, painless, and usually completed within 15 to 20 minutes. Most patients go home the same day.

How Is Cataract Surgery Done?

Patients often feel anxious because they are unsure how cataract surgery is performed. Here is a simple explanation of the cataract surgery procedure:

• The eye is numbed using eye drops
• A very small opening is made in the eye
• The cloudy lens is broken into tiny pieces and removed
• A clear artificial lens is placed inside the eye

The procedure does not require stitches in most cases and recovery starts almost immediately.

Types of Cataract Surgery

There are different types of cataract surgery depending on the technique used:

MICS Cataract Surgery
Micro Incision Cataract Surgery uses a very small incision, leading to faster healing and less discomfort.

Laser Cataract Surgery
Laser cataract surgery uses advanced laser technology for enhanced precision. Many patients choose laser cataract surgery in Mumbai for faster visual recovery.

Types of Lenses for Cataract Surgery

Choosing the right cataract surgery lens is just as important as the surgery itself.

• Monofocal lenses for clear distance vision
• Multifocal lenses to reduce dependency on glasses
• Toric lenses for astigmatism correction

The cost of multifocal lens for cataract surgery in Mumbai depends on lens technology and vision requirements.

Cataract Surgery Cost in Mumbai and Navi Mumbai

Cataract surgery cost depends on the type of surgery, lens used and hospital facilities.

• Cataract surgery cost in Mumbai ranges from basic to premium laser procedures
• Cataract surgery cost in Navi Mumbai may be slightly lower in some centres
• Affordable and low cost cataract surgery in Mumbai is available for eligible patients
• Free cataract surgery in Mumbai is offered through select government programs

Cataract Surgery Recovery Time and Aftercare

Cataract surgery recovery time is usually quick, with most patients noticing improvement within days.

• Use prescribed eye drops regularly
• Avoid rubbing or pressing the eye
• Wear protective sunglasses outdoors
• Avoid heavy lifting temporarily

Food Not to Eat After Cataract Surgery

• Very spicy or oily food
• Excessive sugar intake
• Alcohol during early recovery

Why Early Cataract Detection Matters

Delaying cataract surgery can affect daily life and reduce vision quality. Early diagnosis allows better planning, more lens options and smoother recovery.

Conclusion

Cataracts may start quietly, but their impact grows over time. Blurry sight, glare and faded colours are signals that your eyes need attention. With modern options like MICS and laser cataract surgery in Mumbai, treatment today is safe, comfortable and highly effective.

At Oswal Eye Care, Chembur, we have some of the best ophthalmologists in Mumbai and our goal is simple to keep your vision crystal clear and your eyes healthy at every stage of life. With advanced diagnostics, experienced ophthalmologists, and patient-friendly care, we make eye health easy, accessible, and stress-free.

FAQs

Is cataract surgery painful?
No. The procedure is done under local anaesthesia using eye drops.

How long does cataract surgery recovery take?
Most patients resume normal activities within a few days.

Can cataracts come back after surgery?
No. Once the cloudy lens is removed, cataracts cannot return.

Is laser cataract surgery better than traditional surgery?
Both are safe and effective. Laser surgery offers more precision for suitable cases.