Cataracts
What is a cataract?
The human eye is like a camera and the lens is crucial for its normal function. The lens is a clear structure found behind the iris (the coloured part of the eye). The lens focuses light on to the back of the eye (the retina) to form a clear image. The lens of the eye is usually clear allowing light to pass through unhindered to produce a sharp image on the retina.
The term cataract describes clouding of the lens. This clouding blocks the light passing through the eye. Gradually the vision resembles a similar effect to that of looking through frosted glass. Vision gradually becomes misty, colours start to appear dull, patients may complain of glare in bright light (e.g. in sunlight or car headlights) and can even cause double vision in the affected eye.
Most commonly, cataracts are due to ageing. Although many people develop cataracts in middle age, for most people cataracts start to become problematic from the age of 60 onwards 60 years of age, cataracts typically become more dense and start to impact on vision.
How is a cataract diagnosed?
Most cataracts are usually detected by the optician as during a patient's annual eye examination. However, if you suspect that you may be developing a cataract, your optician will be able to confirm this. Your optician will also be able to advise about the need for any treatment.
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