Causes and Symptoms of Cataracts

Causes and Symptoms of Cataracts

Cataracts develop as a normal part of the ageing process.
By the age of 60, about half of all adults will have some
cataract formation, although it may be minor and unnoticeable.
By the age of 70, nearly everyone has some degree of cataract
formation.

Diabetes, various chronic eye diseases, eye injury or excessive
ultra-violet light may also cause cataracts.

Cataracts usually develop slowly and at a different rate within each
eye. Some years may pass before the cataract interferes with
vision enough for a person to seek expert advice from an ophthal-
mologist.

The earliest symptoms can begin with glare and sensitivity to bright
light. Later, as the cataract continues to worsen, haloes may appear
around lights. Haloes are especially noticeable when driving at night;
at the same time, night vision typically decreases. Vision typically
becomes more blurred, hazy and foggy, though near vision without
glasses can improve. Colours often become duller and darker.