Types of Cataract


Cataracts can be classified into three main types, based on their location:

Cortical Cataract

This is common amongst diabetics and forms in the lens cortex and through to its centre.  It begins as whitish opacities or streaks on the outer edge of the lens cortex.  Slowly, it progresses to the centre of the lens and interferes with light rays passing through and therefore vision becomes cloudy.  Glare is a common symptom of this type of cataract.

Subcapsular Cataract

This begins at the back of the lens and develops in people with diabetes, severe farsightedness, retinitis pigmentosa or can be caused by steroids.  It often interferes with reading vision and reduces vision in bright light.  It may cause glare or halos around lights, particularly at night.

Nuclear Sclerotic Cataract

This is the most common form of cataract and develops in the centre of the lens with age.  Initially, as the lens changes how it focuses, nearsightedness may be experienced and there may be improvement in reading vision.  As the lens turns densely yellow, vision becomes poor.  Sometimes, the lens even turns brown.  It may be difficult to see in low light and night driving may be problematic with this type of cataract.  There may be some colour distortion in advanced stages of Nuclear Sclerotic Cataract.

Secondary or traumatic cataract may develop from environmental factors and injury.  Baby’s can be born with cataract.  This is known as congenital cataract.

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