What is a typical early sign of cataracts?

Double vision or halos around lights is a typical early sign of cataracts. As cataracts develop, the lens of the eye becomes cloudy or opaque. This clouding can affect the way light is processed, leading to visual disturbances. When light passes through an irregularly shaped lens, it may scatter, resulting in the perception of halos around bright lights and potentially causing double vision in certain situations. Individuals with cataracts often report these symptoms as the initial indicators of changes in their vision, prompting them to seek medical evaluation.

Other signs and symptoms, such as color blindness and sudden glare sensitivity, may not be associated specifically with the early stages of cataract development, and opacity in the lens, while technically accurate as a manifestation of cataracts, typically presents later or as a more advanced condition. The focus on visual disturbances like halos around lights is key in recognizing cataracts at an early stage.