Cataracts: symptoms, detection and diagnosis

Cataracts affect millions of people worldwide and are the leading cause of vision impairment, especially among older adults.

Understanding what cataracts are and how they may affect the eyes can help people make the right decision for their eyes.

What are cataracts?

A cataract is the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which lies behind the iris and the pupil. The lens works just like the camera lens’ it focuses light to the back of the eye on the retina to give clear images.

With time, proteins within the lens start to clump, which results in the characteristic clouding of cataracts.

How common are cataracts?

According to the World Health Organization, nearly 65% of all people aged 60 and older have some degree of cataract development.

Symptoms of cataracts:

• Blurred vision.

• Glare and halos.

• Faded colors.

• Difficulty with daily activities like reading, driving, or seeing street signs. Natural progression of cataracts: Without intervention, cataracts will likely continue to develop and worsen over time. Stronger lighting and eyeglasses can help manage the symptoms; as the condition progresses, these adjustments may no longer be sufficient.

If left untreated, cataracts can lead to a significant decrease in vision and even blindness.

Early detection and treatment: Cataracts can be discovered through a regular eye exam by an ophthalmologist, who can discuss potential treatment options and answer questions.

Cataracts represent a condition people do not have to make peace with as they get older. Early diagnosis and intervention can ensure the preservation of quality of life and independence.

—Carlos E. Martinez, Medical Director at Eye Physicians of Long Beach Cataracts are most commonly related to aging, but can also occur due to diabetes, prolonged exposure to ultraviolet sunlight, smoking, some metabolic disease, and certain types of medication.

Dr. Carlos Martinez