Cataracts

A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye that affects vision. Most cataracts are related to aging.

By age 80, more than half of all North Americans either have a cataract or have had cataract surgery. A cataract can occur in one or both eyes.

graphic cataracts

Cataract symptoms

Because cataracts are a condition that worsens over time, so do its symptoms. The most common symptoms of a cataract are:

  • Cloudy or blurry vision
  • Faded appearance of colours
  • Glare: headlights, lamps, or sunlight may appear too bright (a halo may appear around lights)
  • Poor night vision
  • Double vision or multiple images in one eye
  • Frequent prescription changes in your eyeglasses or contact lenses

These symptoms can also be a sign of other vision problems. If you have any of these symptoms, it is recommended that you consult your eye care professional.

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