A cataract is a progressive clouding or opacification of the natural lens of the eye. Usually the development of cataracts is a natural part of the aging process.
Symptoms of a Cataract:
- Blurry vision
- Changes in color vision, i.e.: colors appear faded or yellowed
- Light sensitivity
- Loss of contrast
- Poor night vision
- Haloes or glare around lights
Lens with a cataract
Vision with cataract
Types of Cataracts
- Nuclear: the most common type of cataract that affects the center of the eye
- Cortical: begins in the periphery (outer edges), and grows toward the center
- Subcapsular: affects the back of the lens and develops rapidly
Besides aging, there are other causes of cataracts:
- Trauma or blunt injury
- Congenital (born with)
- Other types of cataracts are caused by steroids, some medications and systemic diseases, such as diabetes
- Radiation cataracts are caused by radiation treatment
