Halos as the Nights Get Darker

As autumn settles in and evenings draw darker, many people begin to notice rings or ‘halos’ around streetlights, headlights or lamps. While this visual effect might seem harmless, a leading London eye surgeon is warning that it could be an early symptom of cataracts - the world’s most common cause of treatable blindness.

Mr Alex Day, Consultant Ophthalmologist at Moorfields Private Eye Hospital, says this seasonal change can provide a valuable prompt for people to pay closer attention to their vision.

“At this time of year, we spend more time driving in the dark and relying on artificial lighting. That’s often when people first notice halos, glare or changes in night vision,” explains Mr Day. “Halos are not always a cause for alarm, but they can be an important sign of cataracts - particularly if they are new, persistent, or affecting daily life.”

What are cataracts?

Cataracts occur when the clear lens inside the eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurred or hazy vision. Though more common in people over 60, they can affect adults of any age. Left untreated, cataracts can seriously impact quality of life - but the good news is they are highly treatable with modern surgery.

Why autumn matters

The shift to shorter days can make cataract symptoms more noticeable. Streetlights and car headlights often highlight the halo effect, and people with cataracts may find night driving increasingly uncomfortable. Mr Day adds: “Cataracts develop gradually, so people often adapt without realising how much their vision has changed. That’s why seasonal cues, like struggling with glare in autumn and winter, can be an important reminder to book an eye test. Detecting cataracts early ensures patients can receive the right advice and, if necessary, treatment before it significantly affects their independence.”

· Cataracts are the leading cause of vision loss worldwide, affecting millions in the UK.

Don’t ignore the warning signs

While not every case of halos around lights is linked to cataracts, experts recommend seeing an optician if you notice ongoing changes in your vision. Mr Day concludes: “Halos are one of the most common early symptoms I hear from patients with cataracts, but they’re not the only one. Being aware of the full picture is key. Cataract surgery is one of the most successful operations performed in the UK - so there’s no need to suffer in silence.”

· The risk of severe vision loss from cataract surgery is about one per one thousand surgeries. 

Checklist: Other common signs of cataracts

· Blurred or cloudy vision

· Sensitivity to bright lights and glare

· Colours appearing faded or yellowed

· Double vision in one eye

· Needing frequent changes to glasses or contact lens prescriptions

· Difficulty seeing at night