Cataracts are one of the most common eye conditions in the United States, especially among older adults. Over time, they can lead to significant vision impairment, and if left untreated, cataracts can cause sight complications and, in some cases, blindness.
Recognizing the early signs of cataracts and understanding what cataracts look like can help you seek timely treatment and preserve your vision.
Cataracts come in various forms and develop for different reasons, but they generally cause the lens of the eye to become cloudy. Physically, cataracts may appear as white streaks or wedge-shaped spots on the lens. In more advanced stages, severe or mature cataracts can cover the entire lens, making the eye look milky white or brownish yellow.
However, the appearance of cataracts can vary depending on the type and location within the eye. Here are a few of the most common varieties of cataracts:
Cataracts may look and perform differently from person to person, but all lead to deteriorating vision and, if not addressed correctly, can significantly impact your quality of life.
A nuclear sclerotic cataract forms deep in the center of the lens, also known as the nucleus. This is the most common type of cataract and can happen naturally with age. As the lens hardens in a process called sclerosis, it can cause the eye to appear more yellow or brown. This type of cataract typically causes a gradual decline in vision quality, often resulting in nearsightedness.
See how a nuclear sclerotic cataract forms and how it can affect vision in this short clip.
Cortical cataracts affect the periphery of the lens and may appear as white streaks or cloudy areas along the lens’s edge. The lens fibers on the outer edge become opaque and grow toward the center of the lens, creating a streak-like pattern. This type of cataract can cause significant glare and light sensitivity, especially at night.
See how a cortical cataract forms and how it can affect vision in this short clip.
Posterior subcapsular cataracts form at the back of the eye lens. They often begin as a small, cloudy area directly in the path of light entering the eye. PSCs can severely affect vision, especially in bright light, and may cause halos or glare around lights at night. This type of cataract may develop more quickly than other types and can lead to more rapid vision deterioration.
See how a posterior subcapsular cataract forms and how it can affect vision in this short clip.
Cataracts can have a serious impact on your vision. Normally, light enters the eye and passes through a clear lens, which focuses the light onto the retina. The retina then sends visual signals to the brain through the optic nerve, allowing us to see clearly. However, when cataracts form, the lens becomes cloudy, distorting the light as it passes through.
With cataracts, vision can appear foggy or blurry, as if looking through a dusty or frosted window. Colors may seem faded or yellowed, and the sharpness of details diminishes. Some people experience double vision, increased sensitivity to light, or difficulty seeing at night, like a glare from the headlights of oncoming traffic. The overall effect is a significant reduction in the quality of vision.
The first sign of cataracts varies from person to person, but for many, it often involves slight changes in vision quality. The early signs of cataracts may include difficulty seeing clearly, increased glare, double vision, or a need for brighter lighting at night or when reading. However, these changes often occur gradually, and many people attribute them to simply aging or the need for a stronger prescription.
Aging is the most common cause of cataracts, typically beginning around age 50 when normal proteins in the lens start to deteriorate. However, other factors can contribute to cataract development, including diabetes, excessive sun exposure without eye protection, smoking, and a family history of cataracts.
One of the most visible early signs of cataracts is lens discoloration. As the proteins in the lens break down and clump together, the lens may take on a yellow or brown hue. This discoloration can sometimes be noticed by friends or family members before the individual is even aware of the problem.
Cataracts are a leading cause of blindness worldwide, but the progression and speed of the condition varies from person to person. For age-related cataracts, it may take decades for vision to deteriorate to the point of blindness. Some people may notice changes in their vision early on, while others may not experience significant problems until much later.
In many cases, cataracts develop slowly, and patients can continue their daily activities for years before needing surgery. However, certain types of cataracts, such as traumatic cataracts or pediatric cataracts, can progress more rapidly and require immediate treatment.
There are a few uncommon types of cataracts that may happen suddenly or without warning:
Traumatic cataracts can occur due to injury to one or both eyes, either immediately after an accident or years later. This type of cataract develops when the lens fibers are damaged by a blunt or penetrating force. Depending on the severity of the injury, traumatic cataracts can progress quickly and may require prompt surgical intervention.
Pediatric cataracts affect children and newborns. They can be congenital (present at birth) or develop shortly after birth. These cataracts may result from genetic factors, eye conditions, or injuries. Pediatric cataracts require immediate treatment to prevent long-term vision problems and ensure proper visual development.
Of course, it’s important to speak with your eye doctor if you are experiencing any kind of visual pain or disturbance.
Cataract surgery is the only way to remove cataracts and restore clear vision. While cataracts can be removed at any stage, most people choose to undergo surgery when their vision begins to significantly impact their daily lives. However, there is no need to wait for your cataracts to get worse before having the operation. Common indicators that it may be time for cataract surgery include difficulty reading, driving, or recognizing faces, and increased sensitivity to light and glare.
Your eye doctor may recommend cataract surgery, even if cataracts are not the primary cause of your vision problems. Surgery can be performed when your vision quality interferes with your ability to perform everyday activities. Before deciding to undergo cataract surgery, it’s important to have a thorough discussion with your eye doctor about the timing of the surgery and the expected outcomes.
Understanding what cataracts look like, recognizing the early signs of cataracts, and knowing how they can impact vision are essential steps in managing this common eye condition.
While cataracts can develop gradually and may take years to cause significant vision loss, timely intervention can prevent blindness and improve quality of life. If you notice any changes in your vision or suspect you may have cataracts, visit Thomas Eye Group and make an appointment with one of our eye care professionals to determine your best course of action.
