What causes cataracts? |
The lens lies behind the iris and the pupil (see diagram). It works much like a camera lens. It focuses light onto the retina at the back of the eye, where an image is recorded. The lens also adjusts the eye's focus, letting us see things clearly both up close and far away. The lens is made of mostly water and protein. The protein is arranged in a precise way that keeps the lens clear and allows light to pass through it. |
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But as we age, some of the protein may clump together and start to cloud a small area of the lens. This is a cataract. Over time, the cataract may grow larger and cloud more of the lens, making it harder to see.
The most common type of cataract is related to aging of the eye. Causes of Cataract
include: But as we age, some of the protein may clump together and start to cloud a small area of the lens. This is a cataract. Over time, the cataract may grow larger and cloud more of the lens, making it harder to see.
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| The most common type of cataract is related to aging of the eye. Causes of Cataract include: |
 Family history. |
| Medical problems, such as diabetes. |
| Injury to the eye. |
| Medications, especially steroids. |
| Long-term, unprotected exposure to sunlight. |
| Previous eye surgery. |
| Unknown factor. |
What are the symptoms of a cataract? |
| The most common symptoms of a cataract are: |
| Cloudy or blurry vision. |
| Glare. Headlights, lamps, or sunlight may appear too bright. A halo may appear around lights. |
| Poor night vision. |
| Double vision or multiple images in one eye. (This symptom may clear as the cataract gets larger) |
| Frequent prescription changes in your eyeglasses or contact lenses. |
| A painless blurring of vision. |
| Glare, or light sensitivity. |
| Fading or yellowing of colors. |
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