Cataracts Symptoms, Causes & Treatment Explained

June is Cataracts Awareness Month, which is an very important subject in the world of optics. To honour this, we want to bring more light to the condition.

What are Cataracts?

Cataracts are a common eye condition that affects the clarity of your natural lens, leading to blurry or cloudy vision. Most often related to ageing, cataracts can develop slowly over time, impacting daily activities like reading, driving, or recognising faces.

As an optician, we’re often the first to spot early signs during a routine eye test, so understanding the symptoms and seeking help early is key.

Common Symptoms of Cataracts

Cataract symptoms can vary depending on the stage, but typical signs include:

• Cloudy or blurry vision

• Increased sensitivity to light or glare

• Difficulty seeing at night

• Faded colours

• Halos around lights

• Frequent changes in prescription glasses

If you notice any of these changes, it's important to book an eye exam.

What Causes Cataracts?

The main cause is ageing, but other factors include:

• Diabetes

• Smoking

• Excessive UV exposure

• Certain medications (e.g. steroids)

• Previous eye injuries or surgeries

Some people are even born with congenital cataracts.

How Are Cataracts Treated?

In early stages, stronger prescriptions, anti-glare coatings, and brighter lighting can help. However, the only effective long-term treatment is cataract surgery, where the cloudy lens is replaced with a clear artificial one.

Surgery is quick, safe, and highly effective—often restoring vision within days.

The Role of Your Optician

Regular eye tests are essential to monitor cataract progression. As opticians, we can:

• Detect early signs of cataracts

• Advise on lens coatings or magnifiers

• Refer you to an ophthalmologist when surgery is needed

• Provide post-surgery eyewear solutions

If you're over 60 or experiencing vision changes, don’t wait. Book an eye test with us today and protect your sight. Cataracts are treatable—and with the right support, you can see clearly again.