VISION CONCERN

Cataracts

Also called: cataract, cataracts, cloudy vision, milky vision, glare at night, halos, everything looks foggy, washed out colours, glare from headlights

Cataracts occur when the normally clear lens inside the eye becomes cloudy, causing vision to become increasingly blurred, hazy or less vivid.

TYPICALLY OCCURS

Ageing, eye injury, diabetes and long-term steroid use

TREATED BY

Cataract surgery and prescription vision correction

ALSO LINKED TO

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Why it happens?

The natural lens inside the eye is normally transparent and helps focus light onto the retina to produce a clear image. As we age, proteins and other components within the lens gradually change and can begin to clump together, reducing its transparency. These changes scatter or block light as it passes through the eye, producing the characteristic clouding known as a cataract. Age-related changes are by far the most common reason cataracts develop, and they usually progress slowly over a period of years.

Several factors can increase the likelihood of cataracts developing earlier or progressing more quickly. Diabetes is associated with an increased risk, as are smoking and prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Long-term use of corticosteroid medication can also contribute. Previous eye injuries, inflammation inside the eye and certain types of eye surgery may lead to cataract formation, sometimes years after the original event. Less commonly, babies can be born with cataracts or develop them during childhood because of genetic or developmental factors.

As a cataract becomes denser, less clear light reaches the retina. Vision may gradually become blurred or misty, colours can appear faded, and glare from bright lights or headlights may become increasingly troublesome. Some people notice halos around lights, poorer night vision or frequent changes in their glasses prescription. Cataracts usually do not cause pain or redness, and because the deterioration is often gradual, a person may not immediately recognise how much their vision has changed.

How far along is it?

Early

Small changes begin within the lens, often with little effect on everyday vision. Mild glare, slight blurring or changes to the glasses prescription may occur.

Moderate

Clouding becomes more noticeable. Vision may appear hazy, colours less vivid and bright lights or night driving increasingly difficult.

Advanced

Significant lens clouding interferes with everyday vision. Reading, driving, recognising faces or performing other routine activities may become increasingly difficult.

What addresses it?

Treatments that address this

Cataract surgery→Lens replacement→

Cataracts do not necessarily need treatment as soon as they are detected. In the earlier stages, updated glasses, improved lighting and other practical adjustments may be sufficient. Regular eye examinations can help monitor how the cataract and vision are changing.

It is worth discussing further management when reduced vision begins interfering with everyday activities such as reading, working, driving or recognising faces. Cataract surgery may then be considered based on how significantly the condition affects your vision and quality of life rather than simply the presence of a cataract.

Sudden loss of vision, severe eye pain, new flashes or floaters, or a red painful eye are not typical symptoms of an ordinary age-related cataract and require prompt professional assessment.

Quick Questions:

What are the first signs of cataracts?

Early signs can include slightly blurred or misty vision, increased sensitivity to glare, difficulty seeing in low light, faded colours or needing changes to your glasses prescription more frequently.

What causes cataracts?

Most cataracts result from natural age-related changes within the eye’s lens. Diabetes, smoking, UV exposure, long-term steroid use, eye injuries and certain eye conditions can also increase the risk.

Can cataracts go away on their own?

No. Once the lens has become cloudy from a cataract, it does not naturally become clear again. Early visual symptoms may sometimes be managed with changes to glasses or lighting, but surgery is the definitive way to remove the cloudy lens.

When do cataracts need surgery?

Surgery is generally considered when cataracts significantly affect everyday vision or activities such as reading, working or driving. The decision is based on the individual’s symptoms, eye health and visual needs rather than reaching a particular cataract stage.