A cataract is a clouding of the normally clear lens of your eye. Looking through a cloudy lens is like trying to see through a frosty or fogged-up window. Clouded vision can make it more difficult to read or drive a car — especially at night. Cataracts commonly affect distance vision and cause problems with glare (headlights). They generally don't cause discomfort or pain.

Normal Eye


Cataract Eye

Clouding of the lens is a normal part of the aging eye. About half of Americans older than 65 have some degree of cataract. After age 75, as many as 70 percent of Americans have cataracts that are significant enough to impair their vision.

Most cataracts develop slowly and don't disturb your eyesight early on. As the clouding progresses, the cataract eventually interferes with your vision.

In the early stages, stronger lighting and eyeglasses can help you deal with the vision problems. At some point, if impaired vision jeopardizes your normal lifestyle, you might need surgery. Fortunately, cataract surgery is one of the safest, most effective and most common surgical procedures.

Complications after cataract surgery rarely occur. If there are complications they are usually completely treatable.