Cataracts
Cataracts are a cloudiness that form in the lens of the eye that creates blurring, affecting both near and distance vision. The lens is the part of the eye that allows a focused image to be transmitted onto the retina. Cataracts generally result from the ageing process, though they can also develop from other causes such as congenital disability (from birth) or trauma to the eye. Cataracts due to aging usually develop slowly and affect both eyes at different rates. They are often successfully removed through surgery, including the insertion of intra-occular lenses.
Functional implications of a cataract include:
- Having difficulty seeing traffic when crossing the road
- Having difficulty driving
- Having difficulty reading
- Having difficulty judging depth
- Seeing a halo or double vision around lights at night
- Seeing images as if through a veil
- Being particularly sensitive to glare and light
- Having dulled colour vision.