Cataract - Eye Disease

A cataract is an eye disease in which the clear lens of the eye becomes cloudy opaque, causing decrease in vision (clouding of the lens of the eye). Cataracts typically progress slowly to cause vision loss, and are potentially blinding if untreated. The condition usually affects both eyes, but almost always one eye is affected earlier than the other.

Early in the development of age-related cataract, the power of the lens may be increased, causing near-sightedness (myopia), and the gradual yellowing and opacification of the lens may reduce the perception of blue colours.

Facts About Cataracts

1. Cataracts are extremely common and most cataracts are a result of the aging process.
2. Although many cataracts are not significant enough to require treatment, surgical removal of cataracts is usually safe and effective, resulting in improvement of vision.
3. Cataract surgery should be performed when the visual loss from the cataract significantly impacts the lifestyle of the individual patient.