Clock change warning to drivers with cataracts

Cloudy vision and a distracting glare from lights at night are two of the main side effects of cataracts. And at this time year, with extended night-time driving conditions, the symptoms can become apparent for many drivers.

Yet, research from Optegra Eye Hospital Birmingham reveals that two thirds (58 per cent) of drivers admit to experiencing distracting glare and not feeling safe driving at night but continue to do so.

Optegra is calling on British drivers not to ignore these signs that they may not be safe behind the wheel.

Optegra ophthalmic surgeon, Mr Alastair Stuart, said: “Some people are just coping with, and in some cases ignoring, these vision problems. To drive in a haze of cloudiness is just not safe. Add to that the disabling glare from lights as the nights draw in and drivers really are putting themselves, and others, at risk.

“At this time of year we are asking anyone who realises driving is more challenging due to cloudiness or bright lights to please go to their local optician and have an eye health check. Do not ignore the signs, as you may not be safe behind the wheel. And with one in three adults having cataracts, this may well be the cause of the problem. The great news is there is a solution which can restore excellent vision.”

Many British adults are prevented from living a full and active life due to their cataracts and yet cataract surgery is a simple, fast procedure and one of the most commonly performed elective operations in the world.

Mr Stuart concludes: “It is vital that people know the first symptoms of cataract so they can look into diagnosis and treatment as early as possible, as this will dramatically improve their quality of life. We have so many patients who say they feel like a net curtain has been lifted once they have had the simple procedure and are given a new lease of life.”

Optegra Eye Health Care is a specialist provider of ophthalmic services. Established in 2007, it has completed over one million eye procedures from its 40 eye hospitals and clinics across the UK, Czech Republic and Poland.

Optegra brings together leading-edge research, medical expertise and state-of-the-art surgical equipment. It performs more than 100,000 treatments annually, both private and publicly funded. Its top ophthalmic surgeons are renowned for their areas of expertise, offering excellent clinical outcomes and great patient service.