WHAT IS A CATARACT ?

The human eye contains a natural lens which contributes approximately one third of the focusing power of the eye.  This lens is much like the lens in a camera, and sits deep in the eye immediately behind the iris (i.e. the coloured part of the eye).  A cataract is a clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye.  It can be compared to a window that is frosted or yellowed. The amount and pattern of cloudiness within the lens can vary.  If the cloudiness is not near the center of the lens, you may not be aware that a cataract is present.  There are many misconceptions about cataract.  

Cataract is not – 

• a film over the eye

• caused by overusing the eyes

• a cause of irreversible blindness

WHAT CAUSES CATARACT?

The most common type of cataract is related to normal aging of the eye.  Other causes of cataract may include:

• family history

• medical problems, such as diabetes

• injury to the eye

• some medications, especially steroids

• previous eye surgery

HOW FAST DOES A CATARACT DEVELOP?

How quickly the cataract develops varies among individuals and may even be different between the two eyes.  Most age-related cataracts progress gradually over a period of years. Other cataracts, especially in younger people and people with diabetes, may progress rapidly over a short time.  It is not possible to predict exactly how fast cataracts will develop in any given person.

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Common symptoms of cataract may include:

• a painless blurring or dimming of vision

• glare, or light sensitivity, especially at night

• double vision in one eye

• needing brighter light to read

• fading or yellowing of colors

HOW IS A CATARACT DETECTED?

By performing a thorough eye examination, your ophthalmologist can detect the presence of a cataract.  Problems with other parts of the eye (such as the cornea, retina or optic nerve) can be responsible for vision loss and may prevent you from having much or any improvement in vision after cataract surgery.  If improvement in your vision is unlikely, cataract removal may not be recommended.