Guide To Identifying The Correct Type Of Cataract In Adults

A cataract is a clouding in your eye lens. It occurs due to the normal ageing process, which leads to a protein buildup in that region. The onset of the condition is pretty slow and not perceptible to start with. However, the good thing is that this condition is easily detected through a routine eye examination. All you need after that is a vision-correction surgery, and you will say goodbye to blurry vision. 

The symptoms of all types of cataracts 

The symptoms of this condition vary depending on the type that you have developed. In general, if you are getting a cataract or already have one, there will be a vision change. 

Some of the other symptoms are: 

• Seeing halos 
• Double vision 
• Blurred vision 
• Changes in in-depth perception and night vision 
• Sunlight sensitivity making your vision blurry 
• Unable to read or distinguish colours 

There are three main types of this condition, and they are: 

1. Nuclear Sclerotic Cataracts   

2. Cortical Cataracts  

3. Posterior Subcapsular Cataracts    

Each of these types, along with their unique symptoms, have been discussed below.

Identifying the three types of cataracts in adults

1. Nuclear Sclerotic Cataracts 

This is one of the most common types of cataract that starts at the nucleus of your eye, which is the central part. Nuclear Sclerotic progresses slowly, and it often takes years to develop. It starts with a slow yellowing and hardening of the nucleus that gradually spreads to the other layers as time passes. 

This type also tends to create a second sight as time passes. The second sight ensures that there is a temporary improvement in your near-sight, i.e., close-up vision. But this improvement is temporary, and the eyesight goes from bad to worse as the condition progresses. 

2. Cortical Cataracts 

You are at a high risk of developing this type of cataract when you have high blood sugar. In terms of the progression of the condition, Cortical Cataracts take the opposite route Nuclear Sclerotic. It begins from the outermost part of the eye. When it grows, it forms spokes that go to the nucleus from the outer part of the lens. 

Some of the common symptoms of this condition are difficulty standing under the glare, blurred vision and changed in depth and contrast perception. 

3. Posterior Subcapsular Cataracts 

You have a greater risk of developing posterior subcapsular cataracts when you have extreme nearsightedness or diabetes. Also, people who regularly take steroids, either as a part of the medical treatment or recreationally, are at high risk. 

With this condition, one of the first things that will change is your night vision. There might also be some difficulty in reading when you have this cataract. Also, the cataract starts developing quickly, usually over months, instead of years. 

Wrapping up 

So, if you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, waste no time in visiting your nearest eye clinic. Besides, as your age progresses, you need to prioritize routine eye checkups. It will help in keeping your vision healthy for the longest time possible.