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Cataract
Moderate
A cataract is a clouding of the normally clear lens inside the eye. As the lens becomes cloudy, less light reaches the retina and vision may become blurred, dim, or less sharp. Cataracts usually develop gradually and are most common with increasing age, although they can also occur after eye injury, surgery, certain diseases, or prolonged exposure to factors that damage the lens. Cataracts may affect one or both eyes but do not spread from one eye to the other.
Body System
Eyes
When to Seek Medical Attention
Cataracts usually develop gradually and do not normally require emergency care. Seek urgent eye assessment for sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, marked redness, flashes or a sudden increase in floaters, or a curtain-like shadow over part of the vision, as these may indicate another eye problem.
Symptoms
2
Causes
0
Treatments
7
Diet
3
Overview
A cataract is a clouding of the normally clear lens inside the eye. As the lens becomes cloudy, less light reaches the retina and vision may become blurred, dim, or less sharp. Cataracts usually develop gradually and are most common with increasing age, although they can also occur after eye injury, surgery, certain diseases, or prolonged exposure to factors that damage the lens. Cataracts may affect one or both eyes but do not spread from one eye to the other.
Symptoms 2
Blurred Vision
Eye Discharge
Causes
Most cataracts develop as part of the aging process as proteins in the lens break down and clump together, making the lens increasingly cloudy. Cataracts can also develop after an eye injury or eye surgery and may be associated with diabetes, inflammation inside the eye, certain medicines such as long-term corticosteroids, radiation exposure, or other conditions. Congenital cataracts may be present at birth or develop during childhood because of genetic or developmental factors.
Risk Factors
Older age is the most important risk factor for cataracts. Other factors include diabetes, a family history of cataracts, previous eye injury or eye surgery, long-term use of corticosteroids or certain other medicines, smoking, radiation exposure, and prolonged ultraviolet light exposure. Some inflammatory eye diseases and other medical conditions can also increase risk. Risk generally increases as the lens is exposed to these factors over time.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Cataracts are diagnosed through an eye examination and assessment of vision. An eye care professional may test visual acuity and examine the lens and other structures of the eye using a slit lamp or other instruments. The pupils may be dilated so that the back of the eye can be examined and other causes of vision loss can be assessed. Additional tests may be used when another eye condition is suspected or when surgery is being planned.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Not all cataracts can be prevented, especially those related to aging
Measures that may help reduce risk include protecting the eyes from ultraviolet light with appropriate sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat, avoiding smoking, protecting the eyes from injury, and controlling medical conditions such as diabetes
A healthy diet containing fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains may support overall eye health
Regular eye examinations can help detect cataracts and other causes of vision changes
Prevention Guidance
Not all cataracts can be prevented, especially those related to aging. Measures that may help reduce risk include protecting the eyes from ultraviolet light with appropriate sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat, avoiding smoking, protecting the eyes from injury, and controlling medical conditions such as diabetes. A healthy diet containing fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains may support overall eye health. Regular eye examinations can help detect cataracts and other causes of vision changes.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 7
Medical and surgical management of cataracts.
Ayurvedic eye health support.
Homeopathic supportive eye care.
Supportive acupressure techniques.
Yoga practices for eye wellness.
Natural supportive therapies.
Traditional supportive management.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Carrots
Rich in vitamin A for eye health
Leafy green vegetables
Contain antioxidants beneficial for vision
Citrus fruits
Provide vitamin C
Foods to Avoid
Sugary foods
May worsen overall eye health
Highly processed foods
Low nutritional value
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
A cataract is a clouding of the eye lens that causes blurred vision and progressive vision loss.
Aging is the most common cause, although diabetes, injuries, and medications may contribute.
Blurred vision, glare, poor night vision, and faded colors are common symptoms.
Yes, cataract surgery is a highly effective treatment.
Protecting eyes from UV light and managing health conditions may reduce risk.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.