A Cataract 8 multiple types is a disease where the clear natural lens inside your eye becomes cloudy, like a foggy or dirty window. This clouding blocks light from passing clearly to the retina (the “film” at the back of the eye), so your vision slowly becomes blurred, dim, or hazy.American Academy of Ophthalmology+1
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens that slowly makes vision blurred, dim, or yellow. Over time, the clear proteins inside the lens clump, scatter light, and stop you from seeing clearly. Cataracts are very common with aging, but they can also happen after injury, medication use, or other eye diseases.ResearchGate+1
Doctors often describe eight major cataract types: age-related nuclear, cortical, posterior subcapsular, traumatic, congenital (present at birth), secondary (from drugs like steroids or other eye disease), radiation cataract, and metabolic/complicated cataract (for example in diabetes). Management principles are similar: slow risk factors, support vision, and when needed, remove the cloudy lens and replace it with a clear artificial lens.ESCRS+1
Most cataracts develop slowly over many years as the proteins in the lens break down and clump together. They usually affect older adults but can happen at any age, and they are the most common cause of reversible blindness worldwide.EyeWiki+1
Other names of cataract
Cataract is also described with other simple names such as “clouding of the lens,” “lens opacity,” or “lens clouding of the eye.” Doctors often say “age-related cataract,” “senile cataract,” or use type names like “nuclear cataract,” “cortical cataract,” and “posterior subcapsular cataract” when they want to be more exact.nei.nih.gov+2EyeWiki+2
Types of cataract
There are many ways to group cataracts. Below are eight important and commonly used types.nei.nih.gov+1
Age-related nuclear sclerotic cataract
In this type, the centre (nucleus) of the lens slowly becomes yellow or brown and harder over time. Vision becomes gradually blurred, and you may feel you are looking through smoke or tea-coloured glass. It is the classic age-related cataract seen in older adults.EyeWiki+1Cortical cataract
Here the outer part (cortex) of the lens develops spoke-like white lines or wedges that move inward. These streaks scatter light and cause glare, halos around lights, and trouble seeing at night, especially while driving.EyeWiki+1Posterior subcapsular cataract
This cataract forms at the back surface of the lens, just in front of the capsule that holds the lens. Even a small patch in this location can cause strong glare, light sensitivity, and trouble reading or seeing in bright light. It often appears earlier in people taking steroids or with diabetes.nei.nih.gov+2EyeWiki+2Congenital or developmental cataract
Some babies are born with cataracts, or they develop in early childhood. Causes include genetic changes, infections in the mother during pregnancy (for example rubella), or metabolic diseases. If not treated, these cataracts can stop normal visual development and cause permanent lazy eye.EMRO+1Traumatic cataract
A strong blow to the eye, a sharp object, burns, or certain chemicals can damage the lens and make it cloudy. Sometimes the cataract appears soon after injury; in other cases, it develops months or years later.EMRO+1Secondary cataract (associated with other diseases or medicines)
This type appears as a result of another eye disease (such as uveitis or glaucoma) or a body disease like diabetes. It may also be linked to long-term use of corticosteroid medicines, especially high-dose or long-course treatment.nei.nih.gov+2EMRO+2Radiation cataract
Exposure to certain types of radiation, such as radiation therapy to the head or upper body or high doses of UV or ionizing radiation, can damage the lens and lead to cataract formation, sometimes many years later.nei.nih.gov+1Metabolic or systemic disease–related cataract
In some metabolic diseases, such as poorly controlled diabetes or rare conditions like galactosemia, abnormal levels of sugars or other substances build up in the lens and pull in water, changing its structure and clarity. These cataracts may appear at a younger age and can progress quickly.Mayo Clinic+2MedPark Hospital+2
Causes of cataract
Cataracts are usually caused by a mix of aging, genes, lifestyle, and other diseases. Below are 20 important causes and risk factors.Mayo Clinic+2nei.nih.gov+2
Natural aging of the lens
The most common cause is simple aging. With time, proteins and fibres in the lens break down and clump, so the once-clear lens slowly becomes cloudy and stiff, reducing clear vision.American Academy of Ophthalmology+1Diabetes mellitus
High blood sugar changes the fluid and sugar balance inside the lens, causing swelling and protein damage. People with diabetes often develop cataracts earlier and may notice faster progression. Good sugar control can lower, but not remove, this risk.Mayo Clinic+2nei.nih.gov+2Excess sunlight and ultraviolet (UV) exposure
Years of working or staying in bright sunlight without eye protection allows UV light to damage lens proteins and increase oxidative stress. This long-term damage speeds up cataract formation.Mayo Clinic+2nei.nih.gov+2Cigarette smoking
Smoking adds many harmful chemicals and free radicals to the blood and eye tissues. These toxins reduce the eye’s natural antioxidants and directly damage lens proteins, so cataracts appear earlier and are more severe.Mayo Clinic+2nei.nih.gov+2Heavy or long-term alcohol use
Regular high alcohol intake is linked with higher cataract risk. Alcohol and its breakdown products may increase oxidative stress and reduce absorption of important vitamins that help protect the lens.Mayo Clinic+1Obesity and poor metabolic health
Being overweight is often linked with diabetes, high blood pressure, and abnormal lipids. Together, these conditions increase oxidative stress and micro-circulation problems in the eye, which can speed cataract formation.Mayo Clinic+2Stanford Health Care+2High blood pressure (hypertension)
Long-standing high blood pressure can damage small blood vessels and increase oxidative stress in eye tissues. Though more strongly linked with other eye diseases, it is also a reported risk factor for cataracts.Stanford Health Care+1Family history and genetic factors
If close family members had cataracts at a younger age, your risk is higher. Genes influence how well your lens can repair daily damage and how quickly proteins clump. Some single-gene disorders cause congenital cataracts.nei.nih.gov+2EMRO+2Previous eye injury (trauma)
A hit, penetrating wound, or chemical burn can directly damage the lens capsule or fibres. The injury may cause swelling, scarring, or later structural changes that make the lens cloudy.EMRO+1Previous eye surgery
Operations such as retinal surgery or complex glaucoma surgery may disturb the lens or its blood supply, increasing the chance of cataract later. Cataract formation is a known long-term complication after some eye surgeries.Mayo Clinic+1Chronic eye inflammation (for example uveitis)
Long-term inflammation inside the eye releases inflammatory chemicals and may require steroid treatment. Both inflammation itself and the medicines used can damage the lens and lead to cataract.EMRO+1Long-term corticosteroid use
Taking steroid tablets, injections, inhalers, or eye drops for months or years is strongly linked with posterior subcapsular cataracts. Steroids change the way lens cells handle proteins and water, so the back of the lens becomes cloudy.Mayo Clinic+2nei.nih.gov+2Radiation therapy to head, neck, or chest
People who receive radiation for cancers or other conditions in the upper body have a higher risk of radiation-induced cataract. Radiation causes direct DNA and protein damage in lens cells, which shows up years later.nei.nih.gov+1Exposure to other toxic chemicals
Some industrial chemicals, heavy metals, or drugs may add to lens damage by increasing oxidative stress or directly harming lens proteins. The exact risk depends on dose, duration, and safety protection.moh.am+1Poor diet low in antioxidants
Diets low in fruits, vegetables, and vitamins like C and E may give less antioxidant protection to the eye. Over many years, this can leave lens proteins more open to damage from light and free radicals.moh.am+1Severe or long-term short-sightedness (high myopia)
People with very long eyeballs and high myopia have higher rates of some cataract types. The exact mechanism is not fully clear but may relate to structural stress and more oxidative damage.EyeWiki+1Systemic diseases such as glaucoma and other eye disorders
Some serious eye diseases share risk factors or inflammatory pathways with cataract. Diseases like uncontrolled glaucoma or retinal problems may indirectly promote lens changes or require surgery that later leads to cataract.EMRO+1Infections during pregnancy causing congenital cataract
If a mother has certain infections (such as rubella) during early pregnancy, the virus can damage the developing lens of the fetus, so the baby is born with cataracts. Vaccination programmes have reduced but not removed this risk.EMRO+1Rare metabolic and genetic syndromes
Conditions like galactosemia or some genetic syndromes change the way sugars and proteins are handled throughout the body. These changes can quickly make the lens cloudy, sometimes in infancy or early childhood.EMRO+1Unknown or mixed causes (idiopathic)
In many people, no single clear cause is found. Instead, cataract results from a lifetime mix of aging, light exposure, mild metabolic problems, and genetic susceptibility that slowly overcome the lens’s natural repair systems.EyeWiki+1
Symptoms of cataract
Cataracts usually develop slowly, so symptoms may be mild at first and get worse over years.Mayo Clinic+2Cleveland Clinic+2
Blurred or cloudy vision
You may feel that you are looking through a foggy window or dirty glass. Fine details become harder to see, and vision may seem “milky” or hazy, even with your usual glasses.American Academy of Ophthalmology+2Cleveland Clinic+2Faded or washed-out colours
Colours may look dull, faded, or less bright than before. Whites may look yellow or brown, and it can be harder to tell similar colours apart.American Academy of Ophthalmology+1Increased glare from lights
Headlights, sunlight, or indoor lights may seem too bright or cause intense glare. This happens because the cloudy lens scatters light in many directions.Mayo Clinic+1Halos around lights
You may see rings or halos around lamps or car headlights, especially at night. These light patterns are caused by scattering as light passes through the cloudy lens.Cleveland Clinic+1Poor night vision
Driving or walking in low light becomes difficult. You may struggle to see road signs, curbs, or faces at night, even if day-time vision seems acceptable.Mayo Clinic+2Cleveland Clinic+2Need for brighter light when reading or doing close work
Tasks like reading, sewing, or using a phone may require stronger lamps or more daylight. You may move closer to windows or hold objects nearer to your face.Mayo Clinic+1Frequent changes in glasses prescription
You may need new glasses more often, yet each new pair helps for only a short time. The changing refractive power of the cloudy lens causes this shifting.Cleveland Clinic+1Double vision in one eye (monocular diplopia)
Some cataracts bend light unevenly, so you see double or ghost images in a single eye. This double vision does not go away when you cover the other eye.Cleveland Clinic+1Difficulty recognising faces
When cataract becomes denser, you may struggle to recognise people across a room or on television. Blurred contrast and faded colours make facial details hard to see.Wikipedia+1Trouble with depth and contrast
Stairs, kerbs, and uneven ground may be harder to judge. Greys may blend together, and dark objects against dark backgrounds become difficult to see clearly.Mayo Clinic+1More accidents or falls
Because vision is blurred and depth is harder to judge, people with advanced cataract can have more stumbles and falls, especially in dim light or unfamiliar places.Wikipedia+1Eye strain and tired eyes
You may squint, strain, or feel your eyes tire quickly when reading or doing near work. The brain and eyes work harder to get a clear image through the cloudy lens.Cleveland Clinic+1Changing colour tone of vision
Some people notice that everything has a yellow or brown tint. This is most common with nuclear cataracts, where the centre of the lens becomes deeply coloured.EyeWiki+1Sensitivity to sunlight or bright rooms (photophobia)
Bright outdoor light or brightly lit shops may be uncomfortable, and you may prefer dim rooms or need sunglasses more often.Cleveland Clinic+1Gradual loss of ability to do everyday tasks
Over time, cataract can interfere with reading, driving, housework, work tasks, and hobbies. People may slowly give up activities they once enjoyed because vision is no longer reliable.Department of Ophthalmology+1
Diagnostic tests for cataract
Eye-care professionals diagnose cataract and its causes with a mix of history, examination, and tests. Not every patient needs every test; doctors choose based on symptoms and surgical planning.Mayo Clinic+2Health+2
Physical examination tests
Medical history and general physical examination
The doctor asks about vision changes, medicines, and diseases such as diabetes or high blood pressure, and checks vital signs. This helps link cataract to systemic causes and prepare safely for any surgery.AAO Journal+2Mayo Clinic+2External eye and eyelid inspection
The doctor looks at the eyelids, conjunctiva, and front of the eye with a light. Redness, scars, or deformities may suggest trauma, infection, or other conditions that affect how cataracts are treated.EyeWiki+1Pupil size and light reflex testing
By shining a light in each eye and watching the pupil reaction, the doctor checks the basic function of the optic nerve and brain pathways. Abnormal responses may suggest other eye or neurological disease besides cataract.Health+1
Manual and office vision tests
Visual acuity test (eye chart test)
You read letters or symbols on a chart at a set distance, often with one eye covered. This simple test measures how clearly you see at distance and helps track cataract severity over time.Health+1Refraction test (glasses power test)
The doctor or optometrist places different lenses in front of your eyes to find the best correction. If vision stays poor even with the best lenses, cataract or another eye disease is suspected.Cleveland Clinic+1Contrast sensitivity and glare testing
Special charts or devices measure how well you see faint grey targets and how glare affects vision. These tests can reveal cataract-related vision problems even when standard visual acuity looks acceptable.Cleveland Clinic+1Confrontation visual field test
The doctor asks you to look straight ahead while small targets are moved from the side. This quick test checks side vision. Abnormal results suggest glaucoma or neurological disease, which may change cataract management.Apollo Hospitals+1Near vision and reading tests
Short-distance charts or reading material are used to see how cataract affects near work. This helps in choosing the most suitable intraocular lens (IOL) target if surgery is planned.American Academy of Ophthalmology+1
Laboratory and pathological tests
Blood glucose and HbA1c tests
Blood tests for fasting sugar and long-term glucose control help diagnose or monitor diabetes, a major cataract risk factor and important concern before eye surgery.Mayo Clinic+2nei.nih.gov+2Lipid profile and cardiovascular risk tests
Cholesterol and triglyceride levels may be checked, especially in older adults. Unhealthy lipids often travel with obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes, which together increase cataract risk and surgical risk.Stanford Health Care+1Kidney and liver function tests
These tests are not for cataract itself but help assess general health before surgery and guide safe use of medicines such as anaesthetic drugs or post-operative pain relief.AAO Journal+1Complete blood count and clotting profile
These tests look for anaemia, infection, or bleeding problems that could complicate eye surgery. If any issue is found, it can be corrected before the cataract operation.AAO Journal+1Inflammatory or autoimmune blood tests (for example ESR, CRP, ANA)
If uveitis or systemic autoimmune disease is suspected as an underlying cause, the doctor may order these tests. Treating the inflammation can help control cataract progression and improve surgical outcomes.EMRO+1
Electrodiagnostic tests
Electroretinography (ERG)
ERG measures tiny electrical signals from the retina in response to flashes of light. It is used when doctors suspect retinal disease behind a dense cataract or want to predict how well the retina will work after surgery.Innovative Eye Care+2Wikipedia+2Visual evoked potential (VEP) test
VEP records electrical activity from the visual cortex at the back of the brain in response to visual patterns. It helps check the entire visual pathway when vision is poor and cataract alone may not explain the problem.Cleveland Clinic+2NCBI+2
Imaging and instrument-based eye tests
Slit-lamp biomicroscopy of the lens
A slit-lamp is a special microscope with a bright, narrow beam of light. The doctor uses it to see the cornea, lens, and front eye structures in detail, and to grade the type and density of cataract.Cleveland Clinic+2EyeWiki+2Dilated retinal and lens examination (ophthalmoscopy)
Eye drops are used to widen the pupils so the doctor can look through the lens to the retina and optic nerve using an ophthalmoscope. This helps confirm cataract and check for other diseases like macular degeneration.Mayo Clinic+2American Academy of Ophthalmology+2Tonometry (eye pressure measurement)
A small device gently touches or blows air at the cornea to measure intraocular pressure. This test screens for glaucoma, which often co-exists with cataract and may change the treatment plan.Mayo Clinic+1Ocular ultrasound (B-scan) for dense cataracts
When the cataract is so dense that the doctor cannot see the retina, a B-scan ultrasound creates cross-section images of the back of the eye. It helps rule out problems like retinal detachment or tumours before surgery.Medscape+2floridaretinainstitute.com+2Optical coherence tomography (OCT) of the macula and retina
OCT is a non-invasive imaging test that uses light waves to take detailed cross-section pictures of the retina. Before cataract surgery, it can reveal hidden macular diseases that might limit vision even after the cloudy lens is removed.PubMed+2BioMed Central+2
Non-Pharmacological Treatments
These measures do not melt or remove a cataract, but they can slow progression, protect the eye, and make daily life easier before and after surgery.
UV-Blocking Sunglasses and Hat
Long-term ultraviolet (UV) exposure speeds lens damage and cataract formation. Wearing sunglasses that block 100% UVA and UVB, plus a wide-brimmed hat, reduces UV reaching the eyes and may lower cataract risk. This simple habit is recommended in cataract prevention advice worldwide, especially for people working outdoors in strong sunlight.JAMA Network+2Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital+2Stopping Cigarette Smoking
Smoking increases oxidative stress in the lens and is strongly linked to age-related cataracts, especially nuclear cataracts. Studies show that current smokers have higher cataract risk, while people who quit reduce that risk over time as the cumulative damage slows. Stopping smoking is one of the strongest lifestyle actions you can take for cataract prevention and for overall eye and body health.PubMed+2IOVS+2Limiting Alcohol Intake
Heavy alcohol use adds oxidative stress and may worsen cataract risk. Some epidemiologic studies associate high alcohol intake with greater odds of cataract and cataract surgery. Cutting down on alcohol supports overall health, makes it easier to control blood pressure and blood sugar, and may lower eye disease risk.ResearchGate+1Tight Blood Sugar Control in Diabetes
Diabetes is a major risk factor for earlier and faster cataract development. High glucose levels change lens proteins and promote osmotic swelling and clouding. Good diabetes control with diet, exercise, and medication lowers the chance of needing cataract surgery at a younger age and reduces other complications such as diabetic retinopathy.ResearchGate+1Healthy Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Management
High blood pressure and abnormal blood fats can damage small blood vessels in the eye and increase oxidative stress. Keeping these factors under control with lifestyle and, when needed, medication helps protect the retina and may indirectly support lens health, especially when combined with a healthy diet and smoking cessation.MDPI+1Antioxidant-Rich Eating Pattern
Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole foods that are rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, lutein, and zeaxanthin is associated with a lower prevalence of nuclear cataracts in several observational studies. Diets high in leafy greens, citrus, and colorful vegetables provide antioxidant protection against the oxidative stress that damages lens proteins.e-cnr.org+3JAMA Network+3Journal of Nutrition+3Omega-3 and Healthy Fats in the Diet
Large cohort studies suggest that people who eat more long-chain omega-3 fatty acids (from fish or certain plant sources) may have a modestly lower risk of cataract or cataract extraction, possibly through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Other studies are mixed, but a balanced intake of healthy fats is considered supportive for overall eye health.Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital+3ScienceDirect+3ResearchGate+3Eye Safety and Trauma Prevention
Eye injuries are a recognized cause of traumatic cataract. Wearing protective goggles during sports, construction work, or when using tools helps prevent direct impact, penetrating injuries, and chemical burns that can quickly damage the lens and speed cataract formation. Safety eyewear is a simple, non-drug way to prevent avoidable cataracts.ResearchGate+1Careful Use of Corticosteroids
Long-term systemic or topical corticosteroid use (for example, some asthma inhalers, oral steroids, or steroid eye drops) can cause posterior subcapsular cataracts. Using these drugs only when truly needed, at the lowest effective dose, and under close medical supervision can help lower this risk. Never stop prescribed steroids suddenly without your doctor’s advice.FDA Access Data+2FDA Access Data+2Regular Comprehensive Eye Examinations
Routine eye exams allow the ophthalmologist to detect cataracts early, monitor their growth, and decide the safest time for surgery. They also help catch other problems like glaucoma or macular degeneration. Guidelines emphasize that surgery should be considered when cataracts limit daily function, not just when vision reaches a certain number.ESCRS+2PMC+2Optimizing Lighting and Contrast at Home
Bright, non-glare lighting, high-contrast text, large-print books, and contrast-enhancing filters can make reading and home tasks easier for people with cataracts. These simple environmental changes do not treat the lens, but they greatly reduce visual disability until surgery is done.PMC+1Low-Vision Aids (Magnifiers, Electronic Aids)
Handheld magnifiers, electronic video magnifiers, and high-contrast screens increase print size and contrast so that cataract patients can read, manage medicines, and continue hobbies. Low-vision rehabilitation is an evidence-based part of managing visual impairment from cataracts and other eye diseases.PMC+1Driving and Safety Counseling
People with cataracts often struggle with night driving, glare from headlights, and judging distances. Counseling on when to stop night driving or limit road trips until after surgery helps prevent accidents. Vision standards used in cataract surgery trials show that improving acuity significantly improves driving safety and confidence.PMC+1Managing Dry Eye and Ocular Surface Disease
Dry eye is common in older adults and may worsen vision quality. Treating lid disease, using artificial tears, and optimizing the ocular surface before cataract surgery improves visual outcomes and comfort after surgery, as shown in surgical outcome studies and guidelines.ESCRS+2Frontiers+2Weight Control and Regular Physical Activity
Obesity is linked to higher risk of diabetes and metabolic syndrome, both associated with cataract. Regular moderate exercise and weight management can reduce systemic inflammation and improve metabolic health, indirectly lowering cataract risk and improving surgical recovery.MDPI+1Limiting Highly Processed Sugary Foods
Diets very high in refined sugars may worsen blood glucose levels and increase lens glycation, which contributes to cataract. Reducing sugary drinks and ultra-processed snacks helps maintain steadier blood sugar and may indirectly slow cataract progression, especially in people with or at risk for diabetes.MDPI+1Controlling Systemic Inflammatory and Autoimmune Diseases
Chronic uveitis and autoimmune diseases increase the need for steroids and can directly damage ocular tissues, promoting cataract. Close coordination between rheumatology and ophthalmology to control systemic inflammation helps reduce steroid doses and protect the lens whenever possible.FDA Access Data+1Patient Education and Shared Decision-Making
Explaining cataract progression, surgical options, and realistic outcomes helps patients choose the right time for surgery and follow eye-drop regimens correctly. Studies show that patient understanding improves satisfaction and visual function outcomes after cataract surgery.PMC+2BMJ Open+2Fall-Prevention Strategies
Poor vision from cataract increases the risk of falls and fractures in older adults. Improving home safety (grab bars, non-slip mats, good lighting) and addressing balance problems can reduce injuries while waiting for surgery or between surgeries on the first and second eye.ScienceDirect+1Psychological and Social Support
Vision loss can cause anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal. Supporting mental health, keeping social connections, and explaining that cataract surgery usually has high success rates can help people cope until their operation, improving overall quality of life.BMJ Open+1
Drug Treatments Around Cataract
No eye drop can reverse or cure a mature cataract. Drugs are used to manage inflammation, pain, infection risk, and pupil size before and after cataract surgery. Doses below are typical label patterns, but only your ophthalmologist can choose the exact regimen for you.
Topical NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory eye drops)
Nepafenac (NEVANAC® and similar)
Nepafenac is a topical NSAID used to reduce pain and inflammation after cataract surgery. It is usually given as one drop three times a day starting one day before surgery and continued for about two weeks after, depending on the label and surgeon preference. It blocks cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, lowering prostaglandin-mediated inflammation and helping prevent cystoid macular edema. Side effects include irritation, delayed corneal healing, and rare corneal complications.FDA Access Data+2Dove Medical Press+2Bromfenac (BromSite® and others)
Bromfenac ophthalmic solution is an NSAID approved to treat pain and inflammation after cataract surgery. Typical regimens are one drop once or twice daily during the peri-operative period. Bromfenac penetrates well into ocular tissues and inhibits COX-2–driven prostaglandin production. Common side effects include eye irritation and foreign-body sensation; serious corneal events are rare but reported.FDA Access Data+2PMC+2Ketorolac Tromethamine (ACUVAIL® and other ketorolac drops)
Ketorolac eye drops are widely used NSAIDs for pain and inflammation after cataract surgery. A common label regimen is one drop twice daily (ACUVAIL) or four times daily for about two weeks after surgery. Mechanism is COX-1/COX-2 inhibition, which reduces prostaglandin-related pain and swelling. Possible side effects include burning, delayed healing, and, rarely, corneal thinning or perforation in at-risk eyes.FDA Access Data+2AA Pharma+2Diclofenac Sodium Ophthalmic Solution
Diclofenac eye drops are another NSAID option to control postoperative pain, redness, and swelling after cataract or refractive surgery. A typical adult dose is one drop four times daily starting after surgery for about two weeks, though the exact schedule follows the product label. It reduces COX-mediated prostaglandin synthesis. Burning, stinging, and rare corneal complications are the main concerns.PubMed+3MedlinePlus+3Medex+3
Topical Corticosteroids
Prednisolone Acetate (PRED FORTE®, OMNIPRED® and generics)
Prednisolone acetate 1% suspension is a potent steroid used to treat steroid-responsive anterior segment inflammation, including inflammation after cataract surgery. Typical dosing is one drop two to four times daily then slowly tapered. It suppresses multiple inflammatory pathways, reducing cells and protein in the anterior chamber. Long-term use may cause elevated eye pressure, glaucoma, delayed healing, and can itself lead to posterior subcapsular cataract, so careful follow-up is vital.Ophthalmology Times+4FDA Access Data+4FDA Access Data+4Difluprednate (DUREZOL®)
Difluprednate is a very potent corticosteroid emulsion indicated for inflammation and pain associated with ocular surgery, including cataract operations. A common label regimen is one drop four times a day starting 24 hours after surgery and continued for about two weeks, then tapered. It strongly suppresses inflammatory mediators, which improves comfort and reduces the risk of macular edema, but it also carries risks of elevated intraocular pressure, infection masking, and delayed healing.Mayo Clinic+3FDA Access Data+3PMC+3Loteprednol Etabonate (e.g., LOTEMAX®)
Loteprednol is a “soft” steroid designed to be quickly inactivated, which may lower the risk of steroid-induced pressure rise. It is used to control postoperative inflammation, often in multiple daily doses that are tapered over several weeks. It blocks inflammatory gene transcription via glucocorticoid receptors. Side effects are similar to other steroids but may be less frequent; monitoring eye pressure is still required.PMC+1Dexamethasone Ophthalmic Preparations
Dexamethasone drops or inserts are used for more intense inflammation control around cataract surgery and other ocular surgeries. They inhibit multiple inflammatory pathways, reducing pain and cellular reaction in the anterior chamber. Dosing frequency and duration vary by product. Side effects include elevated pressure, risk of infection, and delayed wound healing, so therapy is usually short-term and monitored.FDA Access Data+2Medex+2
Antibiotic and Antiseptic Agents
Moxifloxacin Ophthalmic Solution (e.g., VIGAMOX®)
Moxifloxacin is a fourth-generation fluoroquinolone antibiotic used topically or intracamerally to reduce the risk of endophthalmitis after cataract surgery. Labelled topical regimens use one drop several times daily for a few days around surgery; some centers also inject preservative-free moxifloxacin into the anterior chamber at the end of surgery. It blocks bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV. Side effects include transient irritation and rare allergic reactions.ResearchGate+4NCBI+4PJMHSONLINE+4Gatifloxacin (e.g., ZYMAXID®)
Gatifloxacin eye drops are another broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone used peri-operatively to reduce bacterial load on the ocular surface and lower post-surgical infection risk. Typical schedules involve multiple daily drops starting one day before surgery and continuing a few days after. The drug inhibits bacterial DNA replication, and side effects are usually mild irritation or redness.NCBI+1Besifloxacin (BESIVANCE®)
Besifloxacin is a later-generation fluoroquinolone approved for bacterial conjunctivitis but often used off-label in cataract prophylaxis protocols because of its good activity against common ocular pathogens. It is applied as topical drops several times daily. It works by inhibiting bacterial enzymes that control DNA replication. Side effects are mainly local burning, eye pain, or headache.NCBI+1Combination Steroid–Antibiotic Drops (e.g., Tobramycin/Dexamethasone)
Fixed combinations pair a topical antibiotic (such as tobramycin) with a steroid (such as dexamethasone). They are used after surgery to control inflammation and simultaneously prevent or treat bacterial infection. The antibiotic stops bacterial protein synthesis, while the steroid limits inflammatory cell responses. Because combined drops expose bacteria and tissues to both agents, careful use and tapering under an ophthalmologist’s guidance is essential.NCBI+1
Pupil-Acting Agents and IOP Control
Tropicamide
Tropicamide is a short-acting antimuscarinic eye drop used to dilate the pupil for examination and sometimes around surgery. It temporarily paralyzes the sphincter pupillae muscle, enlarging the pupil and allowing better visualization and surgical access. Side effects include light sensitivity and transient blurred near vision; systemic absorption is usually minimal.Wikipedia+1Phenylephrine Ophthalmic Solution
Phenylephrine is a sympathomimetic drop that stimulates the dilator muscle of the iris, helping keep the pupil wide during cataract surgery and reducing the risk of intraoperative miosis. It can cause transient elevation of blood pressure or heart rate if significantly absorbed, so caution is needed in patients with cardiovascular disease.Wikipedia+1Cyclopentolate
Cyclopentolate is another antimuscarinic mydriatic that temporarily paralyzes accommodation and dilates the pupil. It is mainly used for diagnostic purposes but may be part of some cataract pre-operative protocols. Side effects include prolonged blurred near vision and light sensitivity.Wikipedia+1Intracameral Cefuroxime
In some regions, cefuroxime is injected into the anterior chamber at the end of cataract surgery to prevent postoperative endophthalmitis. Large randomized trials have shown reduced infection rates with intracameral cefuroxime compared to topical antibiotics alone. It works by blocking bacterial cell wall synthesis. Rare adverse effects include hypersensitivity and toxic anterior segment syndrome when dosing or compounding is incorrect.NCBI+1Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors (e.g., Oral or Topical Acetazolamide/Brinzolamide)
These drugs do not treat the cataract itself but lower intraocular pressure (IOP) by reducing aqueous humor production. They may be used in patients who develop pressure spikes around surgery or have coexisting glaucoma. Side effects include tingling, fatigue, or electrolyte changes for oral forms and local irritation for topical forms.ESCRS+1Beta-Blocker Eye Drops (e.g., Timolol)
Timolol reduces IOP by decreasing aqueous humor production and may be used if pressure rises after cataract surgery or in patients with glaucoma undergoing surgery. It does not affect the cataract but protects the optic nerve. Side effects can include slowed heart rate, low blood pressure, or bronchospasm, so systemic health must be considered.ESCRS+1Alpha-2 Agonists (e.g., Brimonidine)
Brimonidine lowers IOP by reducing aqueous production and increasing uveoscleral outflow. It is sometimes used short-term around surgery in susceptible patients. Possible side effects are allergy, dry mouth, or fatigue, and it must be used cautiously in infants and small children.ESCRS+1Hyperosmotic Agents (e.g., Mannitol, Glycerol – Systemic)
These systemic agents are rarely used but can acutely lower IOP by drawing fluid out of the eye in emergency situations, such as very high pressure before cataract surgery in certain complex cases. They work by osmotic dehydration of the vitreous body. They can stress the heart and kidneys, so they are used only in hospital settings under close monitoring.ESCRS+1
Dietary Molecular Supplements (10 Items)
Evidence for supplements in cataract is mixed. Diet is more strongly supported than pills. Always discuss supplements with your doctor, especially if you have kidney disease, are pregnant, or take blood thinners.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a water-soluble antioxidant found in citrus fruits and many vegetables. Higher dietary vitamin C intake and plasma levels have been linked with lower cataract risk in several cohort studies, though some high-dose supplement studies show no benefit or even higher risk in certain groups. A common supplement dose is 100–500 mg/day, but food sources are preferred to avoid kidney stones and possible harm from very high doses.ResearchGate+3Journal of Nutrition+3BMJ+3Vitamin A and Beta-Carotene
Vitamin A is essential for photoreceptor function and epithelial health. Diets with adequate vitamin A and carotenoids are associated with better eye health and possibly lower cataract risk, though direct evidence is not strong. Typical supplement doses range around the recommended daily allowance unless medically indicated; excessive vitamin A can be toxic, so more is not always better.MDPI+2e-cnr.org+2Lutein
Lutein is a carotenoid concentrated in the retina and lens. Observational studies show that diets high in lutein are associated with a lower prevalence of nuclear cataract. Supplements often provide 6–20 mg/day, but many experts recommend focusing on leafy greens, corn, and egg yolks, where lutein comes packaged with other beneficial nutrients and fewer side-effect concerns.JAMA Network+2PMC+2Zeaxanthin
Zeaxanthin is closely related to lutein and is also concentrated in the macula and lens. Higher intakes of lutein plus zeaxanthin have been linked in some studies to lower nuclear cataract prevalence, likely by filtering blue light and scavenging free radicals. Supplements often combine 2 mg zeaxanthin with lutein, but again, dietary sources such as green vegetables and corn are strongly encouraged.JAMA Network+2ScienceDirect+2Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA/DHA)
Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective roles. Some studies suggest that higher long-chain omega-3 intake modestly lowers cataract extraction risk, while other data are mixed. Typical supplement doses range from 500–1000 mg/day combined EPA/DHA, though people on blood thinners must be cautious. Eating fish two times per week can provide comparable amounts without very high pill doses.Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital+3ScienceDirect+3ResearchGate+3B Vitamins (B2, B6, B12, Niacin)
Certain B vitamins may support lens metabolism and reduce homocysteine, a marker of oxidative stress. Studies have linked higher intakes of B2, B12, and niacin with decreased risk of mild nuclear or cortical cataracts. Balanced B-complex supplements at standard daily doses may help people with limited diets, but megadoses are not recommended without medical supervision.AAO Journal+1Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that protects cell membranes from oxidative damage. Some early studies suggested that diets rich in vitamin E may help protect against cataracts, but supplement trials have shown inconsistent results. When used, doses near the recommended daily intake are safer; very high doses can interact with anticoagulant therapy and increase bleeding risk.BMJ+1Zinc
Zinc is a trace mineral involved in antioxidant enzymes within the eye. While most evidence focuses on macular degeneration, adequate zinc status is part of overall ocular health. Typical supplement doses are 8–25 mg/day, but high doses can cause copper deficiency, so combined zinc–copper supplements are often used when supplementation is medically indicated.MDPI+1Selenium
Selenium is another essential component of antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione peroxidase. Some nutrition studies have suggested that high dietary selenium intake may be linked with lower cataract risk, although the evidence is not as strong as for vitamin C. Selenium supplements should stay near recommended daily intakes because excessive amounts can be toxic.BMJ+1Mixed Antioxidant Formulas (Multivitamins, AREDS-type)
Many people use multivitamins or AREDS-style ocular supplements designed for macular degeneration. Large trials show clearer benefit for macular degeneration than for cataract, and some long-term high-dose vitamin C or E regimens may even increase cataract risk in specific populations. Any combined antioxidant formula should be chosen with your doctor, matching your eye condition and avoiding unnecessary megadoses.MDPI+3PMC+3PubMed+3
Immunity-Boosting and Regenerative / Stem Cell Drugs
Right now, there are no FDA-approved “immunity-boosting” or stem-cell drugs that directly treat or reverse cataracts in routine clinical practice. Cataract is still treated primarily with surgery. It would be unsafe and misleading to list six “stem cell drugs” with doses for cataract, because they do not exist as approved therapies.Amegroups+1
However, promising research directions include:
Lens epithelial stem-cell–sparing surgery in infants, where a small capsulotomy preserves endogenous stem cells and allows the lens to regrow after congenital cataract removal.The Guardian+4PMC+4University of California+4
Experimental stem cell transplantation and tissue engineering approaches, which are still in early clinical or preclinical stages.Nature+3PMC+3ResearchGate+3
For now, the safest, evidence-based path is good systemic health, strong nutrition, and timely surgery, not unproven regenerative drugs advertised online.
Surgeries for Cataract
Standard Phacoemulsification with Intraocular Lens (IOL)
This is the most common modern cataract surgery. The surgeon makes a tiny corneal incision, opens the front of the lens capsule, breaks the cloudy lens into small pieces with ultrasound, removes it, and places a clear plastic IOL. The goal is to restore clear vision and often reduce dependence on glasses. It has very high success rates worldwide.Frontiers+3ESCRS+3PMC+3Small-Incision Cataract Surgery (SICS / Manual SICS)
In SICS, the surgeon makes a slightly larger but still self-sealing scleral tunnel incision and removes the lens in one piece without ultrasound, then inserts an IOL. It is especially useful in areas with limited resources and dense cataracts. Outcomes can be excellent and comparable to phacoemulsification when performed by experienced surgeons.Frontiers+1Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS)
FLACS uses a laser to create corneal incisions, the lens capsule opening, and pre-fragment the lens. The rest of the procedure is similar to phacoemulsification. The purpose is to increase precision and potentially reduce ultrasound energy, although large trials show similar visual outcomes to standard phaco in many cases. It may, however, help in complex eyes where precision capsulotomy is important.BMJ Open+1Extracapsular Cataract Extraction (ECCE)
ECCE is an older but still sometimes used method for very dense or complicated cataracts. The surgeon removes the central part of the lens through a larger incision while leaving the back capsule in place for IOL support. Recovery is slower and astigmatism can be higher than with modern small-incision techniques, but it remains valuable in certain settings.ESCRS+1Intracapsular Cataract Extraction (ICCE)
ICCE removes the entire lens and capsule through a large incision, sometimes using cryo-extraction. It is now rarely performed because of high complication rates and the difficulty of fixing the IOL without a capsule. It is mainly of historical interest or used in highly selected cases when the capsule is severely damaged.ESCRS+1
Key Prevention Tips for Cataracts
Do not smoke or vape.PubMed+2IOVS+2
Protect eyes from UV with proper sunglasses and hats whenever outdoors.JAMA Network+2Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital+2
Keep diabetes and blood sugar under excellent control.ResearchGate+1
Maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.MDPI+1
Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, and fish.MDPI+3JAMA Network+3Journal of Nutrition+3
Limit heavy alcohol consumption.ResearchGate+1
Avoid unnecessary long-term steroid use; use only under medical supervision.FDA Access Data+2FDA Access Data+2
Use eye protection at work and during sports to prevent trauma.ResearchGate+1
Have regular eye exams, especially after age 50 or if you have diabetes.ESCRS+1
Manage systemic inflammatory diseases in partnership with your doctors.FDA Access Data+2Mayo Clinic+2
When to See a Doctor for Cataract
You should see an eye specialist as soon as possible if you notice:
Blurred or hazy vision that interferes with reading, driving, or daily tasks.
Trouble seeing at night, or bothersome glare and halos around lights.
Frequent changes in glasses prescription without clear improvement.
Double vision in one eye or faded, yellowed colors.
Sudden eye pain, redness, flashes, or a curtain-like shadow (emergency signs that may indicate other serious eye disease).ESCRS+2PMC+2
Early evaluation lets your ophthalmologist distinguish cataracts from other eye conditions and helps you plan the safest time for surgery.
What to Eat and What to Avoid
Eat dark leafy greens (spinach, kale) rich in lutein and zeaxanthin; avoid relying on junk food instead of vegetables.JAMA Network+2PMC+2
Eat colorful fruits like oranges, berries, and kiwi for natural vitamin C; avoid mega-dose vitamin C supplements without medical advice.Journal of Nutrition+2PubMed+2
Eat fish such as salmon or sardines twice per week for omega-3s; avoid frequent deep-fried fast foods that increase systemic inflammation.PMC+3ScienceDirect+3ResearchGate+3
Eat nuts and seeds (almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds) for healthy fats and vitamin E; avoid trans-fat-rich snacks and pastries.BMJ+2MDPI+2
Eat eggs in moderation; egg yolks contain lutein and zeaxanthin; avoid extremely restrictive diets that remove all fats, because carotenoids need some fat to be absorbed.EatingWell+1
Eat whole grains and legumes that support steady blood sugar; avoid large amounts of refined sugar and sweetened beverages.MDPI+1
Eat foods rich in vitamin A (carrots, sweet potatoes) and B vitamins (whole grains, dairy, legumes); avoid unnecessary high-dose vitamin A or niacin supplements.AAO Journal+2MDPI+2
Eat a varied, plant-forward diet similar to Mediterranean-style patterns; avoid highly processed, salty convenience foods that worsen cardiovascular risks.MDPI+1
Drink enough water to maintain good hydration; avoid routinely drinking large quantities of sugary drinks and excessive alcohol.ResearchGate+2MDPI+2
Follow medical nutrition advice if you have diabetes, kidney disease, or other chronic conditions; avoid starting or stopping supplements without talking to your doctor.MDPI+1
Frequently Asked Questions
Can cataracts go away without surgery?
No. Once true cataract has formed, the cloudy lens does not become clear again. Eye drops and supplements cannot reverse established cataracts. They may help comfort or general eye health, but the only proven way to permanently remove a visually significant cataract is surgery.ESCRS+1When is the right time to have cataract surgery?
The best time is when cataracts interfere with your daily life—reading, driving, working, or enjoying hobbies—rather than when vision reaches an exact number. Guidelines stress patient-reported visual disability and expected benefit from surgery, decided together with your ophthalmologist.PMC+2ESCRS+2Is cataract surgery safe?
Modern cataract surgery is one of the most successful surgeries in medicine, with a high percentage of people achieving good visual outcomes in real-world studies, including in rural settings. As with any operation, there are small risks such as infection or retinal detachment, which your surgeon will discuss.Frontiers+1Will I still need glasses after cataract surgery?
Many people see very well without glasses for distance after surgery, especially with monofocal or premium IOLs chosen for distance focus. You may still need glasses for reading, computer work, or fine tasks, depending on the IOL type, your eye shape, and any astigmatism.ESCRS+1Can diet and supplements stop cataracts completely?
Healthy eating with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and fish is linked to lower cataract risk, but it cannot guarantee you will never develop cataracts. Some supplement studies show benefit, others show no effect, and some high-dose regimens may even be harmful. Food-based nutrition is safer than heavy pill use.ResearchGate+4JAMA Network+4Journal of Nutrition+4Do antioxidant eye drops dissolve cataracts?
Claims that certain “anti-cataract” drops can dissolve cataracts are not supported by strong clinical trials. Regulatory agencies have not approved any topical drug that reliably reverses cataracts in humans. Be very cautious of products marketed as cataract cures without high-quality evidence.ESCRS+2Amegroups+2Can cataracts come back after surgery?
The removed lens itself does not come back. However, the back of the lens capsule that holds the IOL can become cloudy months or years later (posterior capsule opacification). This can be easily treated with a quick, painless YAG laser procedure in the clinic.ESCRS+1Is one-eye or both-eyes surgery better?
Most people have surgery on one eye first and then the other later, but some centers perform immediate sequential bilateral cataract surgery in carefully selected patients. Randomized studies of second-eye surgery show extra benefits in depth perception and quality of life compared with single-eye surgery alone.ScienceDirect+1Can cataracts cause permanent blindness?
If left untreated, very dense cataracts can severely reduce vision and may lead to complications such as phacomorphic glaucoma. In most cases, vision can be restored with surgery if the retina and optic nerve are healthy. Access to surgery is critical in preventing avoidable cataract blindness worldwide.BMJ Open+1Will steroid eye drops after surgery damage my eyes?
Short courses of steroid drops are standard care to control inflammation and are generally safe under supervision. Problems like elevated eye pressure, infection masking, or steroid-induced cataract usually occur with prolonged, unsupervised use. Follow the prescribed taper and attend your follow-up visits so your doctor can monitor pressure.Mayo Clinic+4FDA Access Data+4FDA Access Data+4Are stem cell treatments for cataract available now?
Stem-cell–based lens regeneration has shown exciting results in small trials, especially in infants with congenital cataracts, but it remains experimental and is not routine clinical practice. Most people today are treated with standard cataract surgery and IOL implantation.Ophthalmology Times+5PMC+5University of California+5Does using a phone or computer cause cataracts?
Digital screens may cause eye strain and dry eye but are not proven to directly cause cataracts. The main established modifiable risks are UV light exposure, smoking, diabetes, certain medications, and possibly some nutritional patterns, not normal screen use.ResearchGate+2MDPI+2Can I delay cataract surgery if I am afraid?
If your cataract is mild and you function well with glasses and lifestyle changes, it is usually safe to wait. If vision loss affects driving, work, or independence, delaying too long can harm quality of life and increase fall risk. Discuss your fears with your surgeon; modern anesthesia and techniques are designed for comfort and safety.Frontiers+3PMC+3ScienceDirect+3Is cataract surgery different for people in rural or low-resource settings?
Studies from rural eye centers show that high-quality cataract surgery with excellent visual outcomes can be achieved in low-resource settings using cost-effective techniques like SICS combined with good training and follow-up. Access and equity remain challenges, but good results are possible.PLOS+2Frontiers+2What is the single most important step I can take today?
If you suspect cataracts, the most important action is to schedule a full eye exam with an ophthalmologist. At the same time, stop smoking if you smoke, wear UV-blocking sunglasses outdoors, and start a nutrient-rich diet to support overall eye health while you plan your long-term care.MDPI+4PubMed+4Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital+4
Disclaimer: Each person’s journey is unique, treatment plan, life style, food habit, hormonal condition, immune system, chronic disease condition, geological location, weather and previous medical history is also unique. So always seek the best advice from a qualified medical professional or health care provider before trying any treatments to ensure to find out the best plan for you. This guide is for general information and educational purposes only. Regular check-ups and awareness can help to manage and prevent complications associated with these diseases conditions. If you or someone are suffering from this disease condition bookmark this website or share with someone who might find it useful! Boost your knowledge and stay ahead in your health journey. We always try to ensure that the content is regularly updated to reflect the latest medical research and treatment options. Thank you for giving your valuable time to read the article.
The article is written by Team RxHarun and reviewed by the Rx Editorial Board Members
Last Updated: November 15, 2025.
