Ophthalmology Health Channel

	Feature Article Illustrations for this article Click on an image below to enlarge Eye Slit-lamp exam Show all 3 photos Cataract Definition A cataract is a cloudy area in the lens of the eye. This article focuses on cataracts in adults. For information on cataracts in children, see: Congenital cataracts Alternative Names Lens opacity Causes, incidence, and risk factors The lens of the eye is normally clear. If the lens becomes cloudy, the condition is known as a cataract. Rarely, cataracts may be present at or shortly after birth. These are called congenital cataracts. Adult cataracts usually develop with advancing age and may run in families. Adult cataracts are generally associated with aging. They develop slowly and painlessly, and vision in the affected eye or eyes slowly gets worse. Cataracts develop more quickly in the presence of some environmental factors, such as smoking or exposure to other toxic substances. They may develop at any time after an eye injury. Diseases such as diabetes also greatly increase the risk for cataracts. Certain medications, such as cortisone, can also speed up cataract formation. Adult cataracts are classified as immature, mature, and hypermature. A lens that has some remaining clear areas is referred to as an immature cataract. Continue reading this article

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