Cataracts are one of the most common eye conditions affecting millions of people worldwide, especially as they age. A cataract occurs when the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy, causing blurred vision, glare, and difficulty seeing at night. Cataract Surgery is the most effective and safe treatment to restore clear vision, offering quick recovery and long-term results.
What Causes Cataracts in the Eye?
Cataracts usually develop slowly over time. The most common causes include:
✔ Aging (Most common cause)
As we grow older, the proteins in the eye’s natural lens begin to break down and clump together, causing the lens to become cloudy.
✔ Genetics
If your parents or grandparents had cataracts early, you may also develop them sooner.
✔ Medical Conditions
People with diabetes, hypertension, or long-term steroid medications are at higher risk.
✔ Prolonged UV Exposure
Excess sunlight without protection can speed up cataract formation.
✔ Smoking & Alcohol
These habits increase oxidative stress on the lens.
At What Age Do Cataracts Start?
Cataracts typically begin developing after age 50, but noticeable symptoms often appear between 60–70 years.
However, factors like diabetes, heavy UV exposure or family history can cause cataracts to start as early as 40 years.
There are also rare cases of childhood (congenital) cataracts.
Symptoms of Cataracts
Early cataracts may not show obvious symptoms, but as the cloudiness increases, people commonly experience:
- Blurred or cloudy vision
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Sensitivity to bright lights
- Halos around lights
- Frequent changes in glasses power
- Faded or yellowish colors
- Double vision in one eye
If these symptoms affect daily activities such as reading, driving or watching TV, it is time for an eye check-up.
How to Check Cataracts at Home?
While a professional eye exam is necessary for accurate diagnosis, you can look for early signs at home:
✔ Brightness Test
Look at a bright bulb or sunlight (not directly) — if you see halos or glare, cataracts may be forming.
✔ Vision Clarity Test
Read text on your phone at your usual distance. If it appears foggy or dim even with glasses, it could be an early cataract.
✔ Night Vision Check
If driving at night has become difficult due to glare from headlights, this may indicate cataracts.
✔ Color Perception
Notice if whites appear yellowish or colors look dull — a common cataract symptom.
If any signs appear consistently, visit an eye specialist immediately.
Process of Cataract Surgery
Cataract Surgery is one of the safest and most commonly performed eye procedures in the world, with a success rate of over 98%.
Step-by-Step Procedure
1. Eye Numbing
The surgeon uses anesthetic drops to numb the eye — no pain is felt.
2. Micro-Incision
A tiny 2–3 mm incision is made to access the cloudy lens.
3. Lens Removal (Phacoemulsification)
Ultrasound waves break the cataract into tiny pieces, which are gently removed.
4. IOL Lens Implantation
A new artificial lens (Intraocular Lens or IOL) is inserted to restore clear vision.
5. Quick Recovery
The entire process takes 10–15 minutes per eye. Most patients return to normal activities within 2–3 days, with complete healing in a few weeks.
