Cataracts

What happens when you have cataracts?

Cataracts happen when the lens in your eye becomes cloudy. Think of it like looking through a dirty window - everything becomes blurred and harder to see clearly. This usually happens slowly over time and mostly affects people over 60.

What signs might you notice?

Cataracts usually develop gradually, so you might not notice changes straight away. The symptoms often affect both eyes, but one eye might be worse than the other.

You might experience:

• Blurred or cloudy vision
• Finding it harder to see in the dark
• Difficulty reading or watching TV
• Your eyes feeling uncomfortable in bright light
• Seeing two of the same thing instead of one (double vision)
• Seeing bright rings around lights
• Colours looking washed out or faded, especially blues
• Needing to change your glasses prescription more often than usual

These changes can make everyday activities more challenging and affect your quality of life.

Who is more likely to develop cataracts?

While cataracts can happen to anyone, some people have a higher chance of developing them:

• People aged 60 and over
• Those who have had eye injuries or eye surgery
• People with other eye conditions or severe short-sightedness
• Anyone who has taken steroid medicines for long periods
• Smokers
• People with family members who have had cataracts
• Women (slightly more likely than men)
• Those whose eyes have been exposed to lots of sunlight without protection

Certain long-term health conditions can also increase your risk, including type 2 diabetes, severe skin problems, and high blood pressure.

When should you seek help?

You should see an optician if you notice any symptoms of cataracts. They can check your eyes and, if needed, refer you to an eye specialist for further tests or treatment.

Don't wait if your vision is getting worse - early assessment is always better.

What treatment options are available?

The good news is that cataracts don't always need immediate treatment. However, they will get worse over time.

Cataract surgery is the main treatment when your vision problems start affecting your daily life. This involves:

• Removing the cloudy lens
• Replacing it with a clear, artificial lens
• Using local anaesthetic (you're awake but feel no pain)
• Usually going home the same day

If you have cataracts in both eyes, each eye will be treated on separate occasions.

Your GP or eye specialist will discuss whether surgery is right for you based on how much the cataracts are affecting your everyday activities.

Living with cataracts

While waiting for treatment, you might find that stronger reading glasses or brighter lights help with reading. However, surgery is usually very successful at improving vision, with quick recovery and few serious complications.

Important: If you drive, you must tell the DVLA if your eyesight doesn't meet the minimum driving standards. Ask your optician if you're unsure about this.

Remember, speak to your GP if you have any concerns about your vision or eye health.

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Based on NHS.uk guidance. Written by Dr Krishnan Pasupathi, NHS GP.