What Is a Cataract?

A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens inside the eye. The lens, which sits behind the iris (the coloured part of the eye), is normally transparent and plays a key role in focusing light onto the retina at the back of the eye. When the lens becomes cloudy, it causes vision to become blurred, hazy, or less vivid.

Cataract typically develops gradually over time. Most people notice the changes slowly — over months or years — rather than as a sudden event.

Types of Cataract

There are several types of cataract, classified by their location in the lens and their cause:

  • Age-related (senile) cataract — The most common type, developing gradually as part of the ageing process
  • Diabetic cataract — Associated with diabetes
  • Traumatic cataract — Developing after an eye injury
  • Congenital cataract — Present from birth or developing in early childhood
  • Secondary cataract — Developing as a result of other eye conditions or medications

Common Signs and Symptoms of Cataract

Cataract symptoms vary from person to person and depend on the type and location of the cataract within the lens. Common signs include:

  • Gradual blurring of vision that cannot be corrected fully with spectacles
  • Increased sensitivity to light or glare — particularly from headlights at night or bright sunlight
  • Difficulty seeing clearly in dim or low-light conditions
  • Colours appearing faded, yellowed, or less vibrant
  • Seeing halos around lights
  • Frequent changes in spectacle or contact lens prescription
  • Double vision in one eye

Not everyone experiences all of these symptoms. If you notice any of the above, an eye examination is recommended to determine the cause.

What Causes Cataract?

The most common cause of cataract is the natural process of ageing. Over time, proteins within the eye's lens can break down and clump together, causing the lens to become progressively cloudy.

Other factors that may contribute to cataract development include:

  • Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from sunlight
  • Diabetes
  • Certain medications, such as long-term corticosteroid use
  • Previous eye injury or surgery
  • Smoking
  • Family history of cataract

How Is Cataract Managed?

In the early stages, updated spectacles may help manage the effects of cataract. However, spectacles cannot treat the cataract itself — only its effects on vision.

When cataract causes significant visual impairment that affects daily activities such as reading, driving, or recognising faces, surgery may be considered. Cataract surgery involves removing the clouded natural lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The decision to recommend surgery is made by the ophthalmologist based on the individual's clinical assessment and visual needs.

When Should You See an Eye Specialist?

You should schedule an eye examination if you notice any of the following:

  • Gradual or progressive blurring of vision
  • Increasing difficulty driving at night
  • Difficulty reading or carrying out close tasks
  • Increased sensitivity to light or glare
  • Frequent changes in your spectacle prescription
  • Any other concerns about your vision

Early assessment by an ophthalmologist allows appropriate monitoring and ensures that any change in your vision is properly evaluated. If you are in Jhunjhunu or surrounding areas of Rajasthan, contact Global Eye Hospital to book an eye examination.