Cataract
What is a cataract?
A cataract is a clouding of the normal clear lens inside the eye just behind the pupil.
When the lens becomes cloudy, light rays cannot pass easily through it and vision becomes blurry, both for near and distance objects. Sensitivity to glare in bright sunlight, and distortion or ghosting of images may also occur.
Cataracts are the most common cause of failing vision over the age of 60 in Australia. They are a normal part of the aging process in both eyes, but usually develop at different times and at different rates. Less commonly, cataracts can occur in babies, children and young adults.
Causes of cataracts include:
- The natural ageing process
- Prolonged exposure to UV light
- Eye trauma
- Smoking
- Diseases such as diabetes
- Long-term use of some medications (particularly cortisone)
- Hereditary factors
Cataracts are not a growth or film over the eye and are not caused as a result of overusing the eye, or eyestrain and you generally can’t see your cataract in the mirror.
In Channel 9’s Today Show, Dr Smita Agarwal discusses what a cataract is, symptoms, its prevalence in Australia and treatment options. Watch it below.