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Cataract
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s lens that blurs vision, developing slowly with age. It is a leading cause of poor vision in India and is cured by a simple, safe operation.
Causes & risk factors
- Ageing changes in the lens of the eye
- Diabetes
- Long-term sun (UV) exposure
- Smoking
- Eye injury or long-term steroid use
- Family history
Common symptoms
- Blurred or cloudy vision
- Glare and haloes around lights
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Colours looking faded
- Frequent changes in glasses prescription
Tests & diagnosis
- Eye examination by an eye specialist
- Vision (acuity) test
- Blood sugar (diabetes check)
- HbA1c
Treatment & management
- Stronger glasses and better lighting help early on
- Cataract surgery when vision affects daily life
- The cloudy lens is replaced with a clear artificial one
- A quick, safe day-case operation with excellent results
- Manage diabetes and protect eyes from strong sunlight
When to see a doctor urgently
- Vision affecting reading, driving or daily activities — see an eye specialist
- Sudden vision loss, flashes or many new floaters — seek urgent care
- Eye pain or redness
- Rapidly worsening vision, especially with diabetes
Frequently asked questions
Is cataract surgery safe?
Yes. It is one of the most common and successful operations, usually done as a quick day case under local anaesthetic, with most people regaining clear vision.
When should a cataract be operated on?
When it interferes with daily life — reading, driving or work — rather than at a fixed stage. Your eye specialist will advise the right time for you.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.