A cataract is a “clouding” of the eye’s natural lens, which results in blurred or defocused vision. Cataracts are often described as looking through wax paper or cloudy cellophane. People with cataracts also have color differentiation issues and may not be able to tell the difference between two black socks, for example. According to a recent article published in the Archives of Ophthalmology, more than 20 million adults in the U.S. have developed cataracts making it the number one cause of poor vision in the United States. In most cases, cataract surgery is required where the natural lens is replaced with a man-made lens, often referred to as IOL or intraocular lens. This surgery is highly successful and has dramatically improved over the years.

What are the Symptoms of a Cataract?

• Blurred or cloudy vision
• Colors appear faded or dull
• Lamps such as headlights or streetlights have glare or halos; sunlight may appear too bright
• Poor night vision
• Double or multiple vision in one eye; this effect may disappear as the cataract grows

Learn about how to treat cataract