One of the most common eye conditions worldwide, cataracts occur when the clear lens of the eye becomes clouded, obstructing light from passing through to the retina. This can cause blurred or fuzzy vision, as well as increased sensitivity to glare and light. In its early stages, a cataract may not cause any significant vision problems and can often be left untreated. However, as it progresses, a cataract can eventually lead to blindness if left unchecked. Learn this here now.
Age-Related Cataracts
Age-related cataracts are the most common type of cataract, affecting nearly half of all Americans age 80 and older. They develop gradually over time, often causing no noticeable vision problems in the early stages. However, as they progress, age-related cataracts can eventually lead to significant vision loss.
There are several risk factors associated with age-related cataracts, including:
- Increasing age (most common)
- Diabetes
- Exposure to UV light
- Family history of cataracts
- Smoking
- Prolonged use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids
Symptoms of age-related cataracts may include:
- Blurry or fuzzy vision
- Increased sensitivity to light and glare
- Difficulty seeing colors clearly
- Problems with night vision
- Double vision in one eye (this symptom is more common with certain types of cataracts)
Congenital Cataracts
Congenital cataracts are a type of cataract that is present at birth. They can be caused by a genetic mutation or maybe the result of an infection contracted by the mother during pregnancy. Congenital cataracts are relatively rare, affecting only about 1 in every 2,000 babies born in the United States. Read More Here.
Symptoms of congenital cataracts may include:
- Blurry or fuzzy vision
- Increased sensitivity to light and glare
- Difficulty seeing colors clearly
- Problems with night vision
- Double vision in one eye (this symptom is more common with certain types of cataracts)
Trauma-Related Cataracts
Trauma-related cataracts are a type of cataract that is caused by an injury to the eye. They can occur as a result of a car accident, a fall, or any other type of trauma that causes damage to the eye. Trauma-related cataracts are relatively rare, affecting only about 1% of all people with cataracts.
Symptoms of trauma-related cataracts may include:
- Blurry or fuzzy vision
- Increased sensitivity to light and glare
- Difficulty seeing colors clearly
- Problems with night vision
- Double vision in one eye (this symptom is more common with certain types of cataracts)
Diabetic Cataracts
Diabetic cataracts are a type of cataract that is linked to diabetes. People with diabetes are at an increased risk for developing cataracts, and the risk increases as the disease progress. Diabetic cataracts typically develop gradually and may not cause any noticeable vision problems in the early stages. However, as they progress, they can eventually lead to significant vision loss.
Symptoms of diabetic cataracts may include:
- Blurry or fuzzy vision
- Increased sensitivity to light and glare
- Difficulty seeing colors clearly
- Problems with night vision
- Double vision in one eye (this symptom is more common with certain types of cataracts)
Cataracts are a common eye condition that can cause blurry vision and even blindness. There are several different types of cataracts, each with its causes and symptoms. If you suspect that you have a cataract, please see your optometrist for a diagnosis. Early detection is key in preventing vision loss from this condition.