Signs and symptoms
... A cataract usually develops slowly and causes no pain. At first, the cloudiness may affect only a small part of the lens and you may be unaware of any vision loss. Over time, however, as the cataract ...

Causes
... A cataract can develop in one or both eyes, and it may or may not affect the entire lens. The lens is located just behind the iris and the pupil. It''s shaped like a magnifying glass — thicker i...

Risk factors
... Everyone is at risk of developing cataracts simply because age is the single greatest risk factor. By age 65 about half of all Americans have developed some degree of lens clouding, although it may no...

When to seek medical advice
... An eye specialist can detect and track the development of cataracts during routine eye exams. Have your eyes examined: At least every two years beginning at age 60 Any time you develop new eye symptom...

Screening and diagnosis
... The only way to know for sure if you have a cataract is to have an eye examination that includes several tests: Visual acuity test. Acuity refers to the sharpness of your vision or how clearly you see...