Cataract Explained (2026): Causes, Symptoms & Treatment | Dr. Himanshu Mehta

Have you noticed blurry vision, difficulty driving at night, or increased glare from lights? These could be signs of a cataract, one of the most common causes of vision loss, especially in older adults.

In this episode, Dr. Himanshu Mehta explains what cataracts are, why they develop, their symptoms, and the treatment options available to restore clear vision.

What Is a Cataract?

A cataract is the clouding of the eye's natural lens. Normally, this lens is transparent and helps focus light onto the retina, allowing us to see clearly.

As the lens becomes cloudy, light cannot pass through properly, resulting in blurred or hazy vision. Cataracts usually develop gradually and may affect one or both eyes.

What Causes Cataracts?

Although ageing is the most common cause, cataracts can develop due to several factors, including:

• Growing age
• Diabetes
• Eye injury or trauma
• Long-term steroid medication
• Excessive UV exposure
• Smoking
• Family history
• Previous eye surgery
• Certain medical conditions

Understanding these risk factors can help in early detection and timely treatment.

Common Symptoms of Cataracts

As cataracts progress, you may experience:

• Blurred or cloudy vision
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Increased sensitivity to light
• Glare or halos around lights
• Faded or dull colours
• Frequent changes in glasses prescription
• Double vision in one eye

If these symptoms begin affecting your daily activities, it's important to consult an eye specialist.

How Are Cataracts Diagnosed?

A comprehensive eye examination helps diagnose cataracts.

Your ophthalmologist may perform:

• Vision testing
• Slit-lamp examination
• Dilated eye examination
• Retina evaluation
• Eye pressure measurement, if required

Early diagnosis helps determine the right time for treatment.

Can Cataracts Be Treated Without Surgery?

No.

There are no medicines, eye drops, or exercises that can permanently remove a cataract.

In the early stages, stronger glasses or improved lighting may temporarily improve vision. However, once the cataract starts affecting daily life, surgery is the only effective treatment.

What Happens During Cataract Surgery?

Modern cataract surgery is a quick, safe, and stitchless procedure.

During surgery:

• The cloudy natural lens is removed.
• A clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted.
• Most procedures take only 15 to 30 minutes.
• Patients usually return home on the same day.

Vision often begins improving within a day or two after surgery.

Can Cataracts Be Prevented?

While ageing cannot be prevented, you can reduce your risk by:

• Managing diabetes effectively
• Protecting your eyes from UV rays
• Eating a healthy diet rich in antioxidants
• Avoiding smoking
• Having regular eye examinations

Routine eye check-ups are especially important after the age of 40.

Final Thoughts

Cataracts are a common but highly treatable eye condition. Early diagnosis and timely treatment can restore clear vision and improve your quality of life.

If you're experiencing blurry vision or other symptoms of cataracts, don't ignore them. Schedule a comprehensive eye examination with an experienced ophthalmologist at ASG Eye Hospital.

In the next episode, we'll discuss different cataract surgery options, lens choices, and how to prepare for surgery.

Stay connected with ASG Eye Hospital for trusted eye care information on cataracts, LASIK, glaucoma, retina care, cornea, and overall vision health.