Cataract

Age-Related and Secondary Clouding of the Crystalline Lens

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board

Published: February 1, 2026

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Göz Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Cataract?

Aggregation and oxidation of lens proteins reduce lens transparency.

Morphologic types: nuclear sclerotic, cortical, posterior subcapsular, and congenital.

Visually significant cataract is diagnosed when opacification correlates with functional visual decline.

Etiologies include aging, metabolic (diabetes), traumatic, steroid-induced, and congenital forms.

Symptoms

Gradual, painless decrease in vision

Glare and halos around lights, especially at night

Difficulty with night driving and contrast sensitivity

Yellowing or fading of colors

Frequent changes in spectacle prescription (myopic shift)

Monocular diplopia or ghost images

Risk Factors

Age over 60 (strongest risk factor)

Diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome

Long-term corticosteroid use (systemic or topical)

Ultraviolet light exposure and smoking

Ocular trauma or prior intraocular surgery

High myopia and family history

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

Progressive blurred vision affecting driving, reading, or daily activities
Inability to improve vision with new spectacles
Sudden worsening with pain or redness (possible lens-induced inflammation)

Treatment Methods

Early-stage: update refraction, anti-glare lenses, and improved lighting

Surgical removal when functional vision impairs quality of life or driving

Phacoemulsification with foldable posterior-chamber intraocular lens (most common)

Intraocular lens options: monofocal, toric, multifocal, or extended depth-of-focus

Postoperative topical antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops

Monitor for posterior capsular opacification and treat with YAG laser capsulotomy if needed

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Göz Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Göz Hastalıkları Department

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.