What are cataracts?

A cataract is a cloudy area in the lens of your eye (the clear part of the eye that helps to focus light). Cataracts are very common as you get older. In fact, more than half of all Americans age 80 or older either have cataracts or have had surgery to get rid of cataracts

You might not have any symptoms at first, when cataracts are mild. But as they grow, cataracts can cause changes in your vision. For example, you may notice that:

• Your vision is cloudy or blurry
• Colors look faded
• You can’t see well at night
• Lamps, sunlight, or headlights seem too bright
• You see a halo around lights
• You see double (this sometimes goes away as the cataract gets bigger)
• You have to change the prescription for your glasses or contact lenses often

Talk with your eye doctor if you have any of these symptoms — they could also be signs of other eye problems.

What are the symptoms of cataracts?

Am I at risk for cataracts?

Your risk for cataracts goes up as you get older. You’re also at higher risk if you:

• Have certain health problems, like diabetes
• Smoke
• Drink too much alcohol
• Have a family history of cataracts
• Have had an eye injury, eye surgery, or radiation treatment on your upper body
• Have spent a lot of time in the sun
• Take steroids — medicines used to treat some health problems, like arthritis or allergies

If you’re worried you might be at risk for cataracts, talk with your doctor. Ask if there’s anything you can do to lower your risk.

Candidates include those diagnosed with cataracts experiencing significant vision loss. Cataracts often develop after age 40 but can occur at any age, including congenital cases. Early-stage cataracts may be managed with glasses or contacts until surgery becomes necessary