Types of Cataracts: A Comprehensive Guide

Cataracts cause clouding of the eye’s natural lens. This makes vision blurry or dull. They develop slowly and often affect older adults, but not always. Here are key details you should know about the types of cataract.

Understanding Cataracts

A cataract forms when the natural lens in the eye turns cloudy. This clouding reduces vision. Most cataracts develop slowly. They are common in older adults but can also affect younger people. Some cataracts may stay small. Others grow and affect daily life. Cataracts do not cause pain or redness. But blurred vision, glare, or faded colours are signs to watch for. Cataract eye surgery is the only solution once vision worsens.

What are the 3 Types of Cataracts

Different types of cataracts affect the eyes. These three common types of cataracts affect the lens. Each shows unique patterns and symptoms.

1.  Nuclear Sclerotic Cataract

This is the most common form. It develops in the centre of the lens. Over time, the lens hardens and turns yellow. Vision slowly becomes blurry, especially for distance. Night driving gets harder. You may see halos around lights. People often ignore it until their vision drops sharply. Glasses can help early on. But if the lens gets dense, cataract eye surgery becomes necessary. Ageing is the main cause here.

2.  Cortical cataracts

These start at the outer edges of the lens. They grow inwards like spokes on a wheel. The gaps between these spokes scatter light. This can lead to glare and trouble with contrast. It may be harder to see in bright sunlight. People might also notice blurry or double vision. Diabetes may raise your risk. Unlike nuclear cataracts, these affect near vision more. Glasses work at first. Surgery is needed if it worsens.

3.  Posterior Subcapsular Cataract

These form at the back of the lens. They block light from reaching the retina. Reading becomes harder. Bright lights can cause glare. This type progresses faster than others. It often affects people who are middle-aged, diabetic, or using steroids for long durations. The vision loss may be rapid in some cases. Unlike other types, it may affect daily tasks early. Cataract eye surgery is advised once symptoms interfere with routine activities.

Different Types of Cataracts

Once you know what are the 3 types of cataracts, you should also familiarise yourself with other types. These are less common but can still impact vision.

1.  Rosette Cataract

It often results from an eye injury. The shape resembles a flower or rosette. It appears suddenly after trauma. Some cases may not reduce vision. But others can cause blurring or glare. It may occur with other damage to the eye. Trauma can also increase the risk of glaucoma through angle recession. Protective eyewear can prevent this. If the lens becomes cloudy, cataract eye surgery helps restore clarity. Doctors assess for other injuries too.

2.  Mature Cataract

The lens becomes fully opaque. Vision is nearly gone or completely blocked. It may appear white or grey. Light sensitivity can be high. In some cases, the pupil looks cloudy. These types of cataract may require timely surgery, especially if they cause complications such as secondary glaucoma. Some people wait too long out of fear. But the surgery is safe and quick. After removal, most regain sight.

3.  Immature Cataract

This cataract has started to form but is not fully developed. Parts of the lens are still clear. Vision may be slightly blurred or dim. It doesn’t always need surgery right away. Regular monitoring is important. Changes can be slow or sudden. Bright light may still be painful. If symptoms grow, eye doctors may suggest early treatment. Sunglasses and proper lighting help during this stage.

4.  Secondary Cataract

This is not a new cataract but a cloudy layer that forms on the posterior capsule left behind after cataract surgery. Vision may get blurry again. A laser treatment called YAG capsulotomy clears it. The procedure is quick and painless. Some call it an “after-cataract.” It happens in a few people post-surgery. It’s not dangerous but may feel frustrating. It does not mean the surgery failed.

5. Cataract Grading

Doctors grade cataracts based on how cloudy the lens looks. Grades range from mild to severe. This helps decide treatment timing. Vision tests and slit lamp exams confirm it. Higher grades mean more light blockage. Some cataracts stay mild for years. Others get worse quickly. The grade helps plan when to operate. Not all types of cataract follow the same timeline. 

6. Traumatic Cataracts

Caused by blunt or sharp injury to the eye. They may appear right away or after months. Shape, size, and location vary. Symptoms include blurry vision or glare. Rosette forms are common here. Trauma may also increase the risk of glaucoma due to structural damage. These types of cataract often affect young adults. Protective gear during risky tasks is essential. Surgery depends on the damage level. Sometimes, other eye repairs are also needed.

7. Congenital Cataracts

These are present from birth or develop early. Genetics, infections, or poor development may cause them. Some are small and harmless. Others block sight and need treatment. Parents may notice poor eye contact or delayed visual responses. Paediatric check-ups catch them early. If vision is at risk, surgery is done soon. Delayed action may lead to lazy eye. Early detection and treatment help save sight.

8. Posterior Polar Cataract

This type affects the central back part of the lens. It is often present from birth, but can also develop later in life. Sometimes it stays stable. Other times, it can grow and affect sight. These cataracts may cause glare or blurred central vision. They are harder to remove due to their position, and there is a higher risk of complications during surgery. Genetic factors may play a role. Even mild trauma can increase the risk of complications.

Conclusion

Understanding the types of cataract is key to early detection and treatment. Symptoms vary but always affect sight. Some develop with age. Others appear due to injury, disease, or birth defects. The good news? Cataract eye surgery works for most cases. Regular check-ups help spot issues early. If you notice cloudy vision, consult an eye doctor. It’s better to act early than wait too long. Surgery helps restore vision and improves life.