If you have cataracts, you may find that driving at night is becoming more difficult, with the glare and halos caused by bright headlights and street lamps making it harder to see. Ideally, you should have someone drive you. However, if this is not possible, use the following tips to help you see better while driving at night when you have cataracts.

Make Sure Your Windshield Is Clean

The first thing you should do before you venture out driving is to make sure your windshield is clean. If the glass is dirty or has streaks, any bright lights will refract off of these unclean areas.

When this happens, the light is intensified, increasing the glare off of the window and directing it towards your eyes. The light is then refracted off the proteins clouding your eyes, causing halos that make it difficult to see.

If you know you are going to have to drive at night, take time during the day to thoroughly clean your windshield. Use either a commercial glass cleaner or ammonia. Then, use either newspaper or a microfiber cloth to wipe it clean.

Using either of these materials to wipe the glass will remove any residue that can leave behind streaks. They also minimize the dust that is often left behind by paper towels or rags.

Minimize Your Eyes' Exposure to Light

Even if you thoroughly clean your windshield, you are going to be exposed to light while driving that seems brighter in contrast to the nighttime darkness. This stark contrast in lighting can also create glare that leads to halos when it comes into contact with your cataracts.

While you are driving, try to minimize your eyes' exposure to direct light whenever possible. Start by dimming the lights on your console, as they can create a lot of glare inside your vehicle that can severely interfere with your ability to see outside.

Another way to minimize contact with direct light is to glance away whenever another car is coming your way. Try to look towards your right to follow the line on the road to ensure you stay in your lane.

Using the above tips can help minimize the effects of light on your eyes while driving at night. However, if your vision starts becoming foggier and you have increased difficulty seeing at night, make an appointment with your optometrist to discuss available options for treating your cataracts.