Cataracts occur when the internal lens of the eye becomes cloudy. Most cataracts are normal age-related change, however conditions such as diabetes, or excess exposure to ultraviolet light or smoking are risk factors that contribute to the progression of cataracts.

An analogy that is often used to describe lens changes is when the once clear egg white changes into a cooked egg white with time.

In the early stages cataracts develop with little effect on vision, as they advance individuals can experience blurred vision, sensitivity to light especially at night, and a feeling of looking through a film.

As cataracts often progress slowly, individuals may be unaware of the impact to vision. The best way to monitor cataract changes is with regular eye examinations. Our optometrists will help in maximising vision, checking that the vision is adequate for driving and talk about the right time for surgery to have the cataract removed.