Types of Cataracts

Age-related cataract: Most cataracts are related to aging.

Congenital cataract: Some babies are born with cataracts or develop them in childhood, often in both eyes. These cataracts may not affect vision. If they do, they may need to be removed.

Secondary cataract: Cataracts are more likely to develop in people who have certain medical problems, such as diabetes. They can also be linked to use of medications; such as steroids. Long-term unprotected exposure to sunlight is also believed to contribute to the development of cataracts.

Traumatic cataract: Cataracts can develop soon after an eye injury, or years later.

Symptoms of a Cataract

The amount and pattern of cloudiness within the lens can vary. If the cloudiness is not near the center of the lens, you may not be aware that a cataract is present. When a cataract is small, you may not notice any changes in your vision. Cataracts tend to grow slowly, so vision gets worse gradually.

The most common symptoms of a cataract are:

Fading or yellowing of colours.

Needing brighter light to read.

Double or multiple vision in one eye
     (this symptom often goes away as the
     cataract grows).
   
Cloudy or blurry vision.

Poor night vision.

Problems with light.
     These can include headlights that seem too bright at night; glare from
     lamps or very bright sunlight; or a halo around lights.

Frequent prescription changes in your eyeglasses or contact lenses.

These symptoms can also be a sign of other eye problems. If you have any of these symptoms check with your eye doctor.