CATARACT RESOURCE CENTRE

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Cataract refers to a cloudy area in the lens of the eye, which blocks the passage of light to the retina, and in so doing causes vision problems.  It is generally a slow progressive condition, which causes slow deterioration of vision.  It can be potentially blinding if left untreated.   Both eyes are usually affected, but one eye is almost always affected earlier than the other.

What causes Cataract?

• Aging - by far the most common cause of cataract.

• Eye injury

• Radiation exposure

• Corticosteroids and some other medication

• Diabetes mellitus

• Some eye diseases may increase risk of cataract formation

• Smoking and ultraviolet light exposure

• Congenital

What are the Symptoms of Cataracts?

Cataracts are painless, and usually develop slowly, so you may notice that your vision is gradually deteriorating over time.  Some of the usual complaints include:

• Cloudy, fuzzy vision

• Seeing a glare from bright lights, particularly at night.  This often makes driving at night particularly difficult.

• You may need frequent changes in your prescription glasses

• Double vision

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