Cataracts are a common eye condition that primarily affects older adults but can occur at any age (some babies can even be born with cataracts). They develop when the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, impacting your vision and daily activities.
Cataracts are a clouding of the natural lens inside your eye, which leads to a decrease in vision. They typically develop gradually as part of the ageing process, although they can also be caused by injury, certain medications, or other health conditions. Essentially, the clear lens becomes opaque, disrupting the way light is focused onto the retina, which can make everyday tasks like reading or driving more challenging.
While you can’t entirely prevent cataracts, especially those related to ageing, you can take steps to slow their progression. Protecting your eyes from UV light by wearing sunglasses and a hat, managing conditions like diabetes, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol intake can help lower your risk. Regular eye examinations are also essential for early detection and management.
Cataracts often develop slowly, so you might not notice changes right away. Common signs and symptoms include:
- Blurred or cloudy vision: Your world may start to look foggy or less distinct.
- Glare and halos: You might notice halos around lights, or bright light sources may cause discomfort.
- Difficulty with night vision: Low-light conditions or night driving may become challenging.
- Faded or yellowed colours: Colors might seem less vibrant or slightly yellowed.
- Frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions: You may find that your prescription needs updating more often than before.
These symptoms can gradually interfere with your daily routine, signaling that it’s time to have your eyes checked.
In the early stages of cataracts, some individuals manage symptoms with:
- updated glasses
- magnifying lenses
- improved lighting
However, when cataracts begin to significantly impact your quality of life, the most effective treatment is cataract surgery. This procedure involves removing the cloudy natural lens and usually replacing it with a clear, artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Cataract surgery is one of the most common and successful procedures, often restoring vision and greatly improving daily function. The decision to proceed with surgery generally depends on how much the cataract affects your vision and daily activities.
When should I see an optical professional?
If you notice increasing cloudiness in your vision, persistent glare, difficulty with night vision, or if colours seem less vibrant, it’s a good idea to schedule an eye examination. Regular eye check-ups are vital—even if you don’t have noticeable symptoms—as they help catch changes early. If your vision changes are interfering with your ability to perform everyday tasks like reading or driving, consulting an optometrist (or ophthalmologist) is essential to evaluate your condition and discuss potential treatment options.
If the cataract becomes severe, we will refer you to an ophthalmologist 🔗 who will perform cataract surgery and replace the cloudy lens with an artificial one.
