What Are Cataracts?
Cataracts can occur when the clear, crystalline lens of your eye becomes rigid and opaque over time. As a result, the lens develops a cloudy, milky, or hazy appearance that could affect your vision.
Cataracts generally develop in both eyes but not evenly. As you age, proteins in your eye’s lens restructure and can prevent light from reaching your retina.
There are several types of cataracts, some of the most common being:
Nuclear Cataracts
Nuclear cataracts develop in the center of your lens, sometimes causing nearsightedness or even temporarily improving your near vision. As it develops, however, your lens can turn yellow or brown, affecting your vision quality.
Cortical Cataracts
Cortical cataracts begin development on the outer edges of your lens. They look like white, wedge-shaped streaks that, over time, can grow to cover your entire lens.
Posterior Subcapsular Cataracts
Posterior subcapsular cataracts are unique in that they develop at the back of your lens, directly in the path of light entering your eyes. These cataracts can grow faster than other types, reducing your near vision quality and causing glare from light sources.
Congenital Cataracts
Congenital cataracts form in children and infants. They’re generally caused by genetics or other conditions like myotonic dystrophy, galactosemia, neurofibromatosis type 2, or rubella.
