What Are Cataracts?
A cataract happens when the clear lens inside the eye becomes cloudy. The lens helps focus light so you can see clearly. As the lens becomes less clear, vision may start to look blurry, dim, or faded.
Cataracts are very common as people get older, but they can also develop because of medical conditions, medications, eye injuries, or rarely, be present at birth.
Several factors can raise the risk of developing cataracts, including:
- Aging
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Heavy alcohol use
- Long-term sun exposure without eye protection
- Steroid medications
- Previous eye injury or surgery
- Family history of cataracts
Symptoms
Cataracts usually develop slowly. At first, vision changes may be mild, but symptoms often become more noticeable over time.
Common symptoms may include:
- Blurry or cloudy vision
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Glare or halos around lights
- Colors looking faded or yellowed
- Frequent changes in glasses prescription
- Double vision in one eye
- Increased sensitivity to bright light
How Is It Diagnosed?
An eye care provider can diagnose cataracts during a complete eye exam. Your provider will ask about your symptoms, vision changes, and medical history.
Testing may include reading an eye chart, examining the inside of the eye after dilation, and checking how well the lens and retina are functioning. These exams help determine how much the cataract is affecting your vision.
How Is It Treated?
In the early stages, cataract symptoms may improve with stronger lighting, updated glasses, magnifying lenses, or anti-glare eyewear.
When cataracts begin interfering with daily activities like driving, reading, or watching television, surgery may be recommended. During cataract surgery, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens. The procedure is commonly performed on an outpatient basis and has a strong safety record.
Many people notice improved vision within a few days after surgery, although full healing may take several weeks. Your eye care provider will guide you through recovery and follow-up care.
