Cataract

cataract

A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens inside the eye that leads to blurry or dimmed vision. It usually develops slowly and is most commonly related to aging, though injury, certain medications, and other health conditions can also cause them. Symptoms often include faded colors, glare from lights, trouble seeing at night, and the need for frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions. A doctor diagnoses a cataract through a standard eye exam that checks how light passes through the lens. Not all cataracts need immediate treatment; early stages may be managed with brighter lighting or new glasses. However, when vision interferes with daily activities, surgical removal is a safe and effective option. Cataract surgery replaces the cloudy lens with a clear artificial lens and is one of the most common and successful medical procedures worldwide. Recovery is usually quick, and most people experience improved vision and a return to normal activities within a few weeks. Preventive steps include protecting eyes from UV light, managing chronic diseases, avoiding smoking, and maintaining a healthy diet. Because cataracts are a leading cause of reversible vision loss, access to timely diagnosis and treatment is important for maintaining quality of life. Knowing the signs of cataracts helps people seek care early and prevent unnecessary dependency.