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Medically Reviewed by Dr. Jaideep Dhama Written by Rajath R PrabhuBook Consultation
Cataracts are the top cause of reversible blindness and vision problems worldwide. They are more common in poorer communities and developing countries than in developed ones.
Age-related cataracts are a significant issue in India. Overall, 14.85% of the population has cataracts. Of individuals in need of cataract surgery, over 77% have already undergone the operation, while 23% still require it.
Read below to know more about the condition, including causes, symptoms, risk factors, treatment, and cost.
Disease Name | Cataract |
Symptoms | Blurry or hazy vision, sensitivity to light, difficulty seeing in low light, faded colors, double vision, frequent changes in eyeglass prescription |
Risk Factors | Genetic, medical and environmental factors |
Diagnosis | Visual acuity test, slit lamp test, dilated eye examination, retinal exam, tonometry |
Treated By | Ophthalmologist |
Treatment | Phacoemulsion, extracapsular cataract extraction, laser cataract surgery |
A cataract is an eye condition in which the lens becomes cloudy, leading to blurry or hazy vision. This gradual change can make daily activities like reading and driving difficult. Cataracts are common in older adults and can be treated with surgery.
The condition usually develops as part of the natural ageing process. The lens of the eye is composed of proteins that are normally arranged to keep it clear and allow light to pass through. As people age, these proteins can clump together, creating cloudy spots on the lens.
Cataracts form in both eyes, although they may progress at different rates in each eye.
Cataracts are primarily age-related, developing as a natural part of the ageing process. But it may happen by birth, too. Different cataract types may affect specific parts of the lens of the eye, including:
Congenital Cataract: Present at birth, it can result from genetic factors, maternal infections like rubella during pregnancy, or certain medical conditions. This type is detected during the adolescent years.
Nuclear Cataract: This occurs in the centre of the lens and is commonly associated with ageing. It leads to gradual vision loss, making it harder to see objects up close.
Posterior Subcapsular Cataract: This type develops at the back of the lens, just beneath the lens capsule, and tends to progress more rapidly. It can make reading small print or seeing in bright light difficult. Individuals with diabetes or those taking steroids are at higher risk for this type.
Cortical Cataract: These form along the outer edges of the lens and gradually move inward. They often cause glare or halos around lights, particularly challenging when driving at night.
Senile cataracts progress through distinct stages, each marked by specific changes in vision and lens opacity. These stages are:
Initial Stage: In this earliest phase, lens clouding is minimal, causing negligible vision disruption. Patients might not even notice symptoms, attributing minor changes in eyesight to age or other factors.
Immature Cataract: As clouding intensifies, vision becomes noticeably blurry. Increased sensitivity to glare, particularly in bright light, is common. Night vision may also be compromised, making driving or low-light activities more challenging.
Mature Cataract: The lens is significantly clouded in this advanced stage, leading to more pronounced visual impairment. Patients experience substantial difficulties with tasks requiring clear vision, such as reading or recognising faces.
Hypermature Cataract: In this stage, the lens may further change, with the potential for shrinkage or protein leakage. These changes can lead to complications like inflammation or elevated intraocular pressure, potentially causing discomfort and complicating treatment decisions.
Initially, cataracts may not present noticeable symptoms, especially in the initial stages. However, as cataracts progress, they can lead to significant changes in vision.
The cataract symptoms can vary between individuals and typically develop gradually over time. The signs include:
Blurry or Hazy Vision: Objects may appear blurred or less defined, making tasks like reading, watching television, or recognising faces more difficult.
Sensitivity to Light: Bright lights and glare can become increasingly bothersome, making nighttime driving particularly challenging.
Difficulty Seeing in Low Light: Cataracts can impair vision in dimly lit environments, such as movie theatres or restaurants.
Faded Colors: Colors may lose their vibrancy and take on a yellowish hue as cataracts advance.
Double Vision: Cataracts can cause double vision in one eye, leading to overlapping images.
Frequent Changes in Eyeglass Prescription: As cataracts develop, the need for changes in eyeglass prescriptions may become more frequent.
It's necessary to recognise that these symptoms could also indicate other eye conditions or vision issues. Therefore, it's essential to consult an eye care professional for an accurate diagnosis. While cataracts are commonly associated with ageing, they can develop at any stage of life.
"As an ophthalmologist, I've had the privilege of helping many patients rediscover the world through clear eyes, but one case stays close to my heart. A patient came to me with a particularly dense and complicated cataract, one that had taken away not just her vision but her independence.
After a careful and intricate surgery, I'll never forget the moment when she opened her eyes and smiled, seeing her loved ones clearly for the first time in years. Cataracts may cloud your vision, but with the right care and expertise, they don't have to cloud your life. Moments like these remind me why I chose this path to bring light back into the lives of those I care for."
Ophthalmologist
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Cataract can develop due to a variety of factors. The most common cause is simply ageing. As one ages, the proteins in the eye's lens can start to break down and clump together, forming cloudy areas that hinder clear vision.
Several risk factors contribute to the development of cataract. These can mainly be classified under three broad categories - genetic, medical and environmental.
Genetic Factor: Some people may be more genetically predisposed to developing cataract if this condition runs in their family.
Medical Factors: The medical factors that increase the risk of cataract in the individuals include.
Diabetes: People with diabetes are more prone to developing cataract due to changes in their blood sugar levels that can affect the eye's lens.
Obesity: Being overweight or obese has been associated with a higher risk of developing cataract.
Use of Certain Medications: Long-term use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids or statins, has been associated with an increased risk of cataract development.
Trauma: Eye injuries or trauma can damage the lens and contribute to the development of cataract.
Environmental Factors: These are the risk factors that an individual comes in contact in day to day routine. These include
Smoking and Alcohol Consumption: Both smoking and excessive alcohol consumption have been linked to an increased risk of cataract.
Exposure to Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation: Prolonged and unprotected exposure to UV radiation from sunlight or artificial sources, such as tanning beds, can accelerate the formation of cataract.
Some individuals may develop cataract due to a combination of these factors, while others may have no identifiable cause. It is important to understand that prevention measures can help mitigate the risk of developing it, especially for those who may be at a higher risk.
Cataract prevention is an essential aspect of maintaining healthy vision. While certain risk factors like genetics and age cannot be controlled, there are steps individuals can take to minimize their chances of developing it.
Wear sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection can help shield your eyes from harmful UV radiation. This is particularly important when you are in direct sunlight for extended periods, such as during outdoor activities or when exposed to reflective surfaces like water or snow.
Protect your eyes from injuries by wearing protective eyewear such as goggles or safety glasses when there is a potential for eye injury, such as during sports activities or specific occupations.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of developing cataracts. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provides essential nutrients supporting eye health. Additionally, regular exercise can help manage weight and improve overall well-being.
Manage chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension is crucial in preventing cataracts. Keeping these conditions under control through medication, lifestyle changes, and regular check-ups can help protect your eyes.
Regular eye exams by scheduling routine visits with an ophthalmologist, potential cataracts can be identified and treated early, preserving the vision for as long as possible.
Quit smoking or never start it in the first place. This can significantly reduce your chances of developing cataracts and a range of other health problems.
Limit alcohol consumption and reduce the risk of developing cataracts. It is important to drink alcohol in moderation and limit your intake to reduce the potential harm to your eyes.
Diagnosis of cataract primarily involves a comprehensive eye examination performed by an ophthalmologist.
During the exam, the doctor will evaluate your overall eye health, assess your vision clarity, and check for signs of cataract. This may include conducting various tests, such as
Visual Acuity Tests: During this test, the patient is asked to read letters or numbers from a chart placed at a distance. The doctor will measure the patient's ability to see and determine if there is any decline in visual acuity.
Slit-lamp Examination: This examination allows the doctor to examine the eyes under high magnification. This instrument provides a detailed view of the various structures of your eye, including the lens. By using a narrow beam of light, the doctor can identify any cloudiness or abnormalities in the lens which are indicative of cataract formation.
Dilated Eye Examination: The ophthalmologist will administer eye drops to dilate the pupils during this procedure. This allows for a better view of the lens and other structures inside the eye.
Retinal Exam: The doctor may also perform a retinal exam to assess the retina's health, which is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. This can help determine if any other factors contribute to vision problems.
Tonometry: This test measures the pressure inside your eyes, which is important in assessing your overall eye health. High pressures can indicate the presence of certain eye conditions, such as glaucoma, which may coexist with cataract.
Once a cataract diagnosis is confirmed, the ophthalmologist will discuss treatment options and recommendations based on the severity of the condition. Sometimes, the cataract may not require immediate intervention and can be monitored over time. However, if cataract significantly affect the vision or quality of life, the eye doctor may suggest the patient to undergo eye surgery.
Preparing for a eye doctor consultation for a cataract is important to ensure one makes the most of the visit. Here are a few steps you can take to prepare:
Make a List of the Symptoms: One should note any vision changes or difficulties experienced, such as blurry vision or sensitivity to light. This will help the doctor understand the condition better.
Gather Relevant Information: Bring any medical records or previous test results related to the eyes that the patient may have. This will provide valuable information for the doctor during the consultation.
Prepare a List of Questions: One must jot down any questions or concerns that he/she have about cataract, such as the different treatment options available, the risks and benefits of surgery, and the expected recovery time. This will help them address any uncertainties they may have during the consultation.
Bring a Supportive Person: It can be helpful to have a trusted family member or friend accompany the patient to the consultation. They can provide emotional support and help remember important information discussed during the appointment.
Listen Carefully: The patient must pay close attention to what the doctor says during the consultation. Take notes if necessary to ensure that he/she fully understands the information provided. Don't hesitate to ask for clarification if something is unclear.
Cataract treatment is a medical intervention aimed at addressing the clouding of the eye's natural lens, which is known as a cataract. It primarily involves surgical procedures that remove the clouded lens and replace it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL), restoring clear vision
Cataracts are treated with surgery, but some non-surgical methods, like prescription eyeglasses, lifestyle changes, and medications, might help slow their progression or temporarily improve vision. However, these methods don't remove cataracts; surgery is usually necessary for a long-term solution.
Read in detail: Treatment of Cataract without surgery
Ayurvedic treatment for immature cataracts focuses on preventing and managing the condition using natural remedies like Triphaladi ghana vati and Elaneer kuzhambu It delays progression and improves eye health, with combined therapies often more effective.
Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any Ayurvedic treatment for cataract
Homeopathy provides cataract treatments that aim to slow progression and relieve symptoms, serving as a complementary option rather than a replacement for conventional medicine Cineraria maritima (CM) is well-known for its use in cataract therapy worldwide but refrain from self-medicating and consult with a qualified homoeopath.
Additionally, scientific evidence supporting homoeopathy for cataracts remains limited
The expense is generally determined by several factors including the lens type (monofocal, multifocal, toric lens), type of technique undertaken, expertise of the eye specialist, type and location of the healthcare facility, insurance coverage and much more
To know the exact cost of cataract treatment in India, one must consult an eye specialist. The table below provides an approximate expense
| Phacoemulsification cost | ₹ 20,000 to ₹ 60,000 |
| Extracapsular cataract extraction cost | ₹ 50,000 to ₹ 70,000 |
| Femto-second laser surgery cost | ₹ 80,000 to ₹ 1,30,000 |
During cataract treatment, the natural lens is replaced with an artificial lens (intraocular lens—IOL). This artificial lens is designed to mimic the function of the natural lens.
It is made of several materials, such as silicone, acrylic, and other polymers, and is available in different shapes and sizes to accommodate the needs of individual patients Below table provides an approximate cost of the cataract lens available in India
| Lens Type | Estimated Cost Range |
| Monofocal Lens | ₹ 20,000 to ₹ 40,000 |
| Multifocal Lens | ₹ 45,000 to ₹ 70,000 |
| Toric Lens | ₹ 50,000 to ₹ 1,10,000 |
Delaying cataract treatment can have various risks and implications. As the cataract progresses, it can lead to further vision impairment and an overall decline in visual quality. This may impact daily activities such as driving, reading, or even recognizing faces. Additionally, untreated cataract can increase the risk of accidents and falls due to poor depth perception and reduced clarity.
Furthermore, cataract can cause a condition called "second sight," where nearsighted individuals temporarily regain clear vision but experience difficulty seeing objects at a distance. Delaying treatment prolongs this inconvenience and hampers normal visual functioning.
If an individual is experiencing a blurry or cloudy vision that affects his/her daily activities, difficulty seeing at night or in low light, sensitivity to glare or bright lights, colours appearing faded or yellowed, or halos around lights or double vision. In that case, it is advisable to consult an eye specialist for cataract.
A healthy diet is crucial in maintaining good eye health and reducing the risk of cataract.
Including foods that are high in antioxidants, such as berries and leafy greens, can help protect the eyes from oxidative stress.
Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and nuts have also been associated with a lower risk of developing age-related cataract. 
Additionally, consuming foods rich in vitamins C and E, like citrus fruits and almonds, can further protect against cataract.
Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water also benefits overall eye health.
On the other hand, it's important to limit processed and sugary foods, as they may contribute to the development of cataract.
It's always a good idea to consult a doctor or nutritionist for personalised dietary recommendations.
Cataracts are a prevalent eye condition affecting individuals of all ages, though they are most commonly associated with ageing. Being aware of symptoms like blurry vision, light sensitivity, and difficulty seeing at night can help one seek timely medical care and prevent further vision loss.
HexaHealth is here to provide expert guidance and care for all eye-related concerns. As a comprehensive healthcare provider, we offer a wide range of solutions tailored to your needs. Don't hesitate to contact us today for trusted support and treatment options.
Suggested Reads
Cataract form in the eye when the natural lens becomes clouded, affecting vision. They develop due to ageing, injury, genetics, or other medical conditions. The clumping of proteins in the lens leads to their formation. Surgery is often required to remove and replace the cloudy lens with an artificial one.
Some of the most common symptoms of cataract include blurred or cloudy vision, faded or yellowed colours, difficulty seeing at night or in low light, and seeing halos around lights or double vision.
A senile cataract, commonly referred to as age-related cataract, is a progressive eye condition characterised by the clouding of the natural lens within the eye. This gradual opacification of the lens is primarily associated with the ageing process, hence the term "senile." Senile cataract are a natural part of ageing and a leading cause of visual impairment among older adults.
Mature cataract are advanced, fully clouded lenses that significantly impair vision. Immature cataract are in their early stages, causing less visual disruption. Immature cataract often exhibit less dense opacification, allowing some light to pass through, while mature cataract cause near-total obstruction, resulting in severe visual impairment.
Cataract is not a disease but a natural age-related process in the eye's lens. Proteins in the lens can clump together over time, leading to clouding and reduced vision. This condition is common among older individuals and is a treatable cause of visual impairment.
The main cataract causes include ageing, genetics, diabetes, smoking, excessive UV light exposure, certain medications, and eye injury or trauma.
An acquired cataract refers to a clouding of the eye's natural lens that develops due to factors beyond ageing. These causes can include trauma, certain medications, prolonged exposure to UV radiation, systemic diseases like diabetes, or eye conditions such as uveitis. Unlike age-related cataract, acquired cataract are a result of external influences.
The eyelash reflex in cataract, also known as the "glare test," involves observing a patient's response to bright light. In individuals with cataract, this reflex might be exaggerated due to light scattering caused by the clouded lens. This can lead to increased glare, discomfort, and reduced visual clarity, indicating the presence of cataract.
Senile cataract progress through different stages:
Initial Stage: Minimal impact on vision, often unnoticed.
Immature Cataract: Gradual blurring of vision, increased glare sensitivity.
Mature Cataract: Severe vision impairment due to lens clouding.
Hypermature Cataract: Lens may shrink, causing inflammation or glaucoma.
The stages vary in symptom severity and impact on daily life.
In immature cataract, visual acuity gradually declines. Patients might experience increased glare sensitivity, difficulty seeing in low-light conditions, and blurred vision.
These changes occur as the lens becomes cloudier, scattering light and leading to reduced clarity. Regular eye examinations are important to monitor these shifts and determine appropriate treatment.
In a mature cataract, the lens is clouded but still intact. In a hypermature cataract, the lens has become more opaque, and it might shrink and lead to complications like inflammation or glaucoma.
Hypermature cataract tend to be more advanced, and surgical removal is often necessary to prevent potential complications.
Yes, cataract can cause coloured halos around lights, especially at night. The clouded lens scatters light entering the eye, leading to visual distortions like halos. This phenomenon can impact vision clarity and is a common symptom of cataract, indicating a need for evaluation and potential treatment.
A cataract diagnosis involves a comprehensive eye exam, including visual acuity testing, dilated eye exam, and tonometry. Grading based on vision impairment determines the severity of the cataract. Additional tests may be conducted to rule out other underlying eye conditions.
The main treatment option for cataract is surgery, where the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an artificial one. Different types of intraocular lenses (IOLs) are available for cataract surgery, such as monofocal, multifocal, and toric lenses. Consult your eye doctor to find the best IOL for your lifestyle.
While complete prevention of cataract is not possible, some measures can be taken to reduce the risk. Protect your eyes from sunlight with sunglasses and a hat, quit smoking, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Regular eye exams can also detect cataract early for prompt treatment.
Myth: Cataract only affect the elderly.
Fact: While cataract are most common in older adults, they can occur at any age. Certain factors like genetics or previous eye injuries can also contribute to the development of cataract in younger individuals.
Myth: Cataract can be cured with eye drops or medication.
Fact: Eye drops and medications cannot reverse or cure cataract. The only effective treatment for cataract is surgery to replace the cloudy lens with an artificial one.
Myth: Cataract surgery is risky and painful.
Fact: Cataract surgery is a safe and commonly performed procedure. It is typically done on an outpatient basis and is considered to be one of the safest surgeries in medicine. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during and after the procedure, with a quick recovery time.
Myth: Wearing glasses can prevent or slow down the progression of cataract.
Fact: While wearing glasses can help improve vision and manage symptoms associated with cataract, they cannot prevent or slow down the condition's progression. Surgery is the only effective treatment for cataract.
Myth: Cataract always lead to blindness.
Fact: Cataract can cause vision impairment, but they do not always result in complete blindness. With timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, vision can be restored and cataract-related visual impairments can be significantly improved. It is important to address cataract early to prevent them from negatively impacting daily activities and quality of life.
The first sign of cataracts is cloudy or blurred vision. This occurs because the lens of the eye, which is usually clear, becomes cloudy or opaque. You may also experience increased glare from lights and difficulty adjusting focus between near and distant objects.
All the articles on HexaHealth are supported by verified medically-recognized sources such as; peer-reviewed academic research papers, research institutions, and medical journals. Our medical reviewers also check references of the articles to prioritize accuracy and relevance. Refer to our detailed editorial policy for more information.
Last Updated on: 27 August 2024
Dr Jaideep Dhama is a well-known Ophthalmologist currently associated with Healthport Clinic. He has 24 years of experience in Ophthalmology and worked as an expert Ophthalmologist in different cities of India.
Docto...View More
MSc. Clinical Research I PG Diploma in Public Health Services Management
3 Years Experience
His work in medical content writing and proofreading is noteworthy. He has also contributed immensely to public health research and has authored four scientific manuscripts in international journals. He was assoc...View More
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