Glare from oncoming headlights, halos around streetlights, and worsening night vision can be more than an annoyance. These symptoms are often linked to cataracts and deserve prompt attention, especially when night driving starts to feel stressful or unsafe.

At Maehara Eye Surgery and Laser in Honolulu, care is led by Dr. Jeffrey Maehara. He is board-certified by the American Academy of Ophthalmology and fellowship-trained as an Anterior Segment Glaucoma Specialist, with additional training in preventive and integrative medicine. The clinic was founded over 30 years ago by Dr. Dennis Maehara, and that long history of focused eye care continues today.

When cataracts are contributing to glare and halos, cataracts surgery can be an effective option to improve clarity, contrast, and confidence after dark.

Why Cataracts Can Cause Glare And Halos

A clear lens focuses light into a sharp image. A cloudy lens does not. As cataracts progress, light is more likely to disperse in different directions, especially in low light conditions when pupils enlarge. This is why symptoms often show up first at night.

Common signs linked to cataracts include:

• Halos around lights
• Increased sensitivity to glare
• Reduced contrast and dimmer vision
• Colors that look faded
• Frequent changes in glasses prescriptions

How Cataracts Surgery Can Improve Night Vision

Cataracts surgery removes the cloudy natural lens and replaces it with a clear intraocular lens. By removing the source of light scatter, many people notice sharper vision and improved contrast, which can make night driving more comfortable. One key goal is to help reduce the visual noise that makes headlights and streetlights seem overwhelming.

A consultation can help confirm whether cataracts are the main cause of symptoms or whether another issue is contributing, such as dry eye, corneal changes, or pupil-related effects.

Lens Options And Nighttime Comfort

Not all lens choices are the same. Some intraocular lenses are designed to prioritize distance clarity, while others aim to reduce dependence on glasses at multiple ranges. Lifestyle matters, especially for those who drive frequently at night in Honolulu.

A pre-surgery discussion may cover:

• Night driving habits and visual priorities
• Existing astigmatism and whether it should be corrected
• The best balance of clarity, range of vision, and visual side effects

Cataract Symptoms And Treatment Options In Honolulu, HI

If glare, halos, or night vision problems are interfering with daily life, a cataract evaluation can help pinpoint the cause and outline next steps. Schedule a consultation with Maehara Eye Surgery and Laser in Honolulu, Hawaii, to discuss cataracts, the possibility of cataract surgery, and lens options that fit your nightly routine and visual goals. 

Call 808-955-3937 to book an appointment and get back to feeling confident behind the wheel after dark.

A cataract is a clouding in the lens of the eye that blurs vision and increases sensitivity to glare from lights. They develop as we age or when an injury to the eye changes the tissue that makes up the eye’s lens. Aging, family history, smoking, high blood pressure, having certain medical conditions like diabetes are some of the biggest risk factors for developing cataracts. There are no studies showing how to prevent or slow the progression of cataracts, but doctors do believe the following tips can help:

Have regular eye exams. Make sure you have a comprehensive eye exam every 1-2 years depending on your age and risk factors and whether you currently wear glasses or contacts. These exams are important as your eye doctor can diagnose and treat problems in the earliest stages.

Choose a healthy diet with lots of fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are full of antioxidants like vitamins C and E that can help maintain the health of your eyes.

Stop smoking and reduce alcohol consumption. Smoking and excessive alcohol use are associated with various health problems. If you smoke, there is a higher risk of developing cataracts. And studies show an increase in cataracts in those who consume more than two drinks per day.

Manage your health problems. If you have a medical condition such as diabetes, you have a higher risk for cataracts. Sugar levels that are too high for a long period can cause the lens of the eye to swell and cause damage. It’s important to discuss your medical history with your eye doctor and let him know whenever your medical history has changed.

Protect your eyes from the sun. Ultraviolet light from the sun can damage your eyes and contribute to the development of cataracts. It’s important to wear sunglasses that block UVB rays when you’re outside.

More than half of all Americans have a cataract or have cataract surgery by age 80. It’s important to schedule regular eye exams and see your eye doctor when you have vision changes to stay on top of your eye health. Schedule your next eye exam with Dr. Jeffrey Maehara at Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser today by calling 808.955.3937.