Cataract eye checks in Reservoir
Cataracts: signs, eye checks and next steps
Cataracts usually develop gradually as the clear lens inside the eye becomes cloudy. They are common as people get older, although they can occur for other reasons.
An eye examination can help assess whether a cataract may be contributing to changes in your vision and whether an ophthalmology referral would be useful.
Understanding cataracts
What is a cataract?
The lens inside your eye helps focus light onto the retina. A cataract forms when this lens becomes cloudy, which can make vision less clear. Cataracts often affect both eyes, although one eye may change sooner than the other.
Most cataracts progress slowly. Having a cataract does not automatically mean you need surgery straight away; the right next step depends on how much it affects your vision and everyday activities.
Changes to notice
Common cataract symptoms
Changes can be subtle at first. They may include:
- blurred, cloudy or hazy vision;
- increased glare or sensitivity to bright light;
- halos around lights;
- difficulty seeing or driving at night;
- colours appearing faded or more yellow; or
- needing prescription changes more often.
These symptoms can also have other causes. A comprehensive eye examination is the appropriate way to investigate what is happening rather than assuming it is a cataract.
A careful assessment
What happens at a cataract eye check?
At Reservoir Spectacles, we take time to understand how your vision has changed and how it affects reading, driving, work and other daily activities.
Vision and prescription
Checking how clearly you can see and whether an updated prescription improves your vision.
Eye health
Examining the health of the front and back of the eyes to look for cataracts and other possible causes of change.
Clear next steps
Explaining the findings and discussing monitoring, practical help or referral when appropriate.
Imaging or other tests may be used when clinically indicated. You can learn more about our comprehensive eye tests.
Living with early cataracts
Can glasses help?
In the earlier stages, an updated glasses prescription, improved lighting or suitable tinted lenses may make some tasks easier. These measures do not remove the cataract, but they may help while symptoms remain manageable.
Our recommendations depend on your examination and the activities that matter to you. See more about our prescription lens options.
Specialist care
When is referral for cataract surgery considered?
Cataract surgery is performed by an ophthalmologist. Referral may be worth discussing when a cataract is affecting daily life—for example, reading, work, mobility or safe driving—and glasses no longer provide enough improvement.
We can explain your examination findings and, when appropriate, assist with a referral to an ophthalmologist. The ophthalmologist will assess the cataract, discuss the expected benefits and risks, and determine whether and when surgery is suitable.
Cataracts usually cause gradual, painless changes. Sudden loss of vision, a painful red eye, severe eye injury, chemical exposure, possible stroke symptoms, or a sudden shower of new floaters or flashes should not be treated as routine cataract progression.
For sudden or concerning symptoms, call the practice promptly on (03) 9460 8017 so urgency can be assessed. See our urgent eye care guidance. Sudden major vision loss, a penetrating injury, severe trauma, chemical exposure or possible stroke symptoms should be directed to an emergency department or 000.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about cataracts
Do all cataracts need surgery?
No. Some cataracts can be monitored, particularly when symptoms are mild and daily activities are not significantly affected. An optometrist can assess your vision and eye health and discuss when referral may be useful.
Can cataracts come back after surgery?
The cloudy natural lens is removed during cataract surgery, so that cataract does not return. Some people later develop clouding behind the artificial lens. An ophthalmologist can assess and treat this if needed.
How often should a cataract be checked?
There is no single schedule for everyone. The timing depends on your symptoms, eye health and rate of change. We will recommend a review interval based on your examination.
Can I drive with cataracts?
Cataracts can affect contrast, glare and night vision. Whether you are safe and legally eligible to drive depends on your vision and circumstances. If driving has become difficult, arrange an eye examination and avoid driving when you do not feel you can see safely.
Cataract eye checks in Reservoir
Arrange an eye examination
If your vision has become cloudy, glare is making night driving harder, or your glasses no longer seem to help as much as they used to, an eye examination can clarify the next step.
Reservoir Spectacles is at 2C Edwardes Street, Reservoir VIC 3073.
Patient information sources: Healthdirect Australia—Cataracts, Healthdirect Australia—Cataract surgery and Better Health Channel—Cataracts.