Cataracts: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

A cataract forms when the normally clear crystalline lens becomes cloudy or opaque. This cloudiness can affect a small portion or the entire lens, leading to significant vision impairment.

Cataracts are most common in people over 60 years old, but they can also develop in younger individuals and even newborns.

Cataracts result from chemical changes in the eye, which may be caused by aging, genetics, eye injuries, or diseases. Excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation, smoking, and certain medications are also risk factors. Cataracts typically develop in both eyes but may progress at different rates.

There is no proven method to prevent cataracts, but certain habits may help reduce the risk. These include wearing sunglasses to protect against UV rays, eating foods rich in antioxidants (vitamins A, C, and E, zinc, selenium, and magnesium).

Cataracts do not cause pain or redness, but they can lead to blurred or hazy vision, seeing spots, a sensation of looking through a film or fog, or increased sensitivity to glare, especially at night.

A comprehensive eye exam performed by an optometrist can detect cataracts and determine their severity.

In the early stages, when vision is only slightly affected, an optometrist may prescribe new lenses to improve clarity. However, as cataracts progress and interfere with daily activities, prescription glasses may no longer be effective. At this stage, your optometrist will refer you to an ophthalmologist, who may recommend cataract surgery. This surgery is relatively uncomplicated and has a success rate of at least 95%.

Cataracts may develop gradually over many years or appear within months. In some cases, they remain stable and do not require treatment. However, if glasses no longer provide functional vision, surgery may be necessary.

Cataract surgery involves replacing the cloudy lens with an intraocular implant, which often restores clear distance vision. However, near vision may still require correction. About four weeks after surgery, your optometrist will prescribe new glasses to optimize both distance and near vision.