Cataract
Not yet clinically reviewed
This protocol was migrated from the earlier Pharmapedia and Ward Guide apps for educational use. Follow your hospital's own policies and consult seniors when in doubt.
Introduction
A cataract is a cloudy area in the lens of your eye. Cataracts are very common as you get older. At first, you may not notice that you have a cataract. But over time, cataracts can make your vision blurry, hazy, or less colorful. You may have trouble reading or doing other everyday activities.
Symptoms
- Your vision is cloudy or blurry
- Colors look faded
- You can’t see well at night
- Lamps, sunlight, or headlights seem too bright
- You see a halo around lights
- You see double (this sometimes goes away as the cataract gets bigger)
- You have to change the prescription for your glasses often
Management
Surgery is the only way to get rid of a cataract, but you may not need to get surgery right away.
Home treatment
Early on, you may be able to make small changes to manage your cataracts. You can do things like:
- Use brighter lights at home or work
- Wear anti-glare sunglasses
- Use magnifying lenses for reading and other activities
New glasses or contacts
A new prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses can help you see better with cataracts early on.
Surgery
Your doctor might suggest surgery if your cataracts start getting in the way of everyday activities like reading, driving, or watching TV. During cataract surgery, the doctor removes the clouded lens and replaces it with a new, artificial lens (also called an intraocular lens, or IOL). This surgery is very safe, and 9 out of 10 people who get it can see better afterwards.