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What is it? 

One of the most common eye conditions impacting older Australians. A cataract is the clouding of the clear lens in the eye and can be in one or both eyes. It can occur due to ageing but can also affect younger people and babies can be born with cataracts. 

Simulation image of how cataracts affects overall blurring of vision
Simulation image of how cataracts affects overall blurring of vision

  • Sensitivity to glare or bright lights – this is usually the first symptom of cataracts. 
  • Blurred, hazy or foggy vision. 
  • Halos appearing around lights. 
  • Distortion or double vision in the affected eye. 
  • A feeling of looking through a film, veil or curtain. 
  • Fading of colours. 

Early diagnosis of cataracts by an eye specialist can help. Make sure to get checked if you experience any changes in your vision. 

Cataract removal is one of the most common and successful surgeries in Australia. It removes the lens of an eye with a cataract and replaces it with an artificial lens.  

Sometimes surgery isn’t an option, or there may be extensive waiting periods. If that's the case, low vision products and strategies can still help.

How it can affect your life

Cataracts can cause trouble with mobility and driving, particularly at night.  

Cataracts can also make it more difficult to see when there is significant glare. You may lose the ability to do close work like reading or watching television because it also causes blurry vision.

Download a guide

Cataracts guide

Fact sheet summary to print or download. 

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