Home » Blog » What Causes a Cataract?

Posted by: Georgia Center for Sight

A cataract is an eye condition that can cause your vision to be impaired. Cataract cannot lead to blindness but it is important to have them removed from your eye. Often a cataract will have developed over time on your eye’s natural lens. In the early stages of a cataract your vision will not be harmed. Over time the cataract will grow and become more opaque causing your vision to diminish. Your vision will grow worse as the cataract continues its development. Luckily, the cataract can be removed and there are surgical options that can help correct your vision so your vision will be stronger after cataract surgery.

What causes a cataract? The main causes of a cataract are:

• age

• heredity

• trauma to the eye

• excess exposure to ultraviolet radiation

• Cataracts can also be a result of taking certain medications, eye disease, or other medical diseases. Aging Birth defects Environmental conditions Accidents or Injuries Exposure to ultraviolet light Cigarette Smoking Symptoms of cataracts Cataracts will make it difficult to see. Eventually, if the cataract becomes severe enough your doctor may suggest cataract surgery. If your vision isn’t impacted to point where it is causing trouble, you may still want cataract surgery because of problems with double vision or glares at night.