Cataract
Clouding of the natural lens that can make vision blurry, dim, or glare-sensitive.
What is it?
A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens inside the eye. It develops gradually and may cause blurry vision, glare around lights, and faded colours. It is one of the most common and treatable causes of visual impairment worldwide.
Common symptoms
- Blurred or cloudy vision
- Glare and halos around lights
- Faded or yellowed colours
- Difficulty seeing at night
Risk factors
- Increasing age
- Diabetes
- Prolonged steroid use
- UV light exposure
- Smoking
- Previous eye injury or surgery
Prevention tips
- Wear UV-blocking sunglasses outdoors
- Stop smoking
- Maintain good diabetes control
- Follow a diet rich in antioxidants (leafy greens and colourful vegetables)
- Have regular eye examinations
Treatment overview
Cataracts are treated with surgery — the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to restore a clear visual medium. Successful surgery does not mean the patient will be spectacle-free; glasses may still be needed for near vision, distance vision, or both depending on the lens choice and the patient’s eye.
Seek urgent care if you notice
- Sudden vision loss
- Severe or worsening eye pain
Related eye care tips
Have questions about your eyes?
This information is general education and does not replace a professional eye examination. If you are worried about your eyes, book an appointment.