Cataract Details
A clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye, leading to decreased vision.
Book ConsultationWhat is Cataract?
A cataract is a clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye. For people who have cataracts, seeing through cloudy lenses is a bit like looking through a frosty or fogged-up window. Clouded vision caused by cataracts can make it more difficult to read, drive a car (especially at night), or see the expression on a friend's face. Most cataracts develop slowly and don't disturb eyesight early on. But with time, cataracts will eventually interfere with vision. At first, stronger lighting and eyeglasses can help deal with cataracts. But if impaired vision interferes with usual activities, cataract surgery is recommended. Fortunately, cataract surgery is generally a safe, effective procedure.
Cataract Symptoms
- Clouded, blurred, or dim vision
- Increasing difficulty with vision at night
- Sensitivity to light and glare
- Need for brighter light for reading and other activities
- Seeing 'halos' around lights
- Frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescription
- Fading or yellowing of colors
- Double vision in a single eye
Cataract Causes
- Aging — most cataracts develop as a result of normal age-related changes
- Ultraviolet radiation from sunlight and other sources
- Diabetes and other metabolic disorders
- Prolonged use of corticosteroid medications
- Previous eye injury or inflammation
- Previous eye surgery
- Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
- Family history of cataracts
- Obesity
- High blood pressure
Treatment for Cataract
- Stronger eyeglasses or magnifying lenses for early-stage cataracts
- Improved lighting at home and work
- Anti-glare sunglasses for light sensitivity
- Cataract surgery — the only effective treatment for advanced cataracts
- Phacoemulsification (small-incision ultrasound surgery)
- Extracapsular cataract extraction for advanced cataracts
- Intraocular lens (IOL) implantation to replace the clouded lens
- Laser-assisted cataract surgery for enhanced precision
When to See a Doctor
You should make an appointment for an eye exam if you notice any changes in your vision, such as clouding, blurring, or increased glare. If you develop sudden vision changes, such as double vision or flashes of light, sudden eye pain, or a sudden headache, see your doctor right away. For adults over 60, it is recommended to have a comprehensive eye exam at least every two years, even if you have no symptoms, as cataracts can develop without noticeable early signs.
Related Conditions
A condition where the eyes do not properly align with each other when looking at an object.
Inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin clear tissue that lies over the white part of the eye.
A diabetes complication that affects the eyes, caused by damage to blood vessels of the retina.
A condition that occurs when tears aren't able to provide adequate lubrication for the eyes.
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