A woman with a cataract in one eye

Cataract

What is a cataract?

Cataracts are very common – the main cause of impaired vision worldwide. Cataracts develop over many years, and problems may at first be unnoticeable. They often develop in both eyes, although each eye may be affected differently. You’ll usually have blurred, cloudy or misty vision, or you may have small spots or patches where your vision is less clear.

What are the symptoms of cataracts?

  • Blurred, misty or cloudy vision

  • You may find it more difficult to see in dim or very bright light

  • Bright lights may be dazzling or uncomfortable to look at

  • Colours may look faded or less clear with a yellow or brown tinge

  • You may have double vision

  • You may see a haloes (circles of light) around bright lights, such as car headlights or street lights

Cataracts are not painful and don’t make your eyes red or irritated.

What causes cataracts?

Cataracts occur when cloudy patches develop in the clear lens inside your eyes, stopping light from reaching the back of the eye, and causing blurred or misty vision.

In most people, cataracts simply develop as they age. Several other factors may also increase your risk of developing cataracts, including:

  • A family history of cataracts

  • Smoking

  • Regularly drinking excessive alcohol

  • A poor diet lacking in vitamins

  • Lifelong exposure of your eyes to UV light

  • Taking steroid medication over a long time

  • Previous eye surgery or injury

  • Certain health conditions, such as diabetes

How do you treat cataracts?

When you have your eyes examined by your Specsavers optometrist, they will use a variety of instruments to look inside and check for cataracts.

If your cataracts are mild, stronger glasses and brighter reading lights may be helpful for some time. However, most cataracts get worse over time (often many years) so it’s likely you will eventually need treatment.

The only treatment that is proven to be effective for cataracts is surgery. This will usually be recommended if your loss of vision has a significant effect on your daily activities, such as driving or reading.

If it is thought you have cataracts that are affecting your quality of life, you can be referred to an ophthalmologist who can confirm the diagnosis and plan your treatment.

Cataract FAQs

Cataract surgery FAQs

Did you know?

AA Members are entitled to a free eye test (valued at $60), once every two years. Remember to present your AA Membership card in‑store.

Find out more

  • Why do I need an eye test?

    Eye tests play a huge part in making sure your eyes stay healthy.

    Check your vision
  • A friendly optometrist giving an eye tests to a man

    Your store visit explained

    At Specsavers we are focused on caring for your eyes and giving you the best possible vision.

    What to expect in‑store
  • A friendly optometrist giving advice to a woman in the test room

    More on eye tests

    An eye test is not just about getting glasses – it is a vital health check for your eyes.

    All about eye tests