Cataracts, a common eye condition that primarily affects older people, progresses through several stages. Each of these has its own different symptoms and treatment options. Understanding the stages of cataracts can help you spot it early and effectively manage the condition.
This article aims to provide you with a better understanding of the signs and symptoms of cataracts at each stage and how it can be treated.
In the early stages, cataracts may not cause noticeable symptoms. Vision changes may be subtle.
Early stages of cataract symptoms
In this early stage, you may not have many noticeable symptoms. However, you may spot some subtle changes in your vision. These can include:
increased sensitivity to glare or halos around lights
mild blurring
increased eye strain.
What do early stage cataracts look like?
Early cataracts may not be visible to the naked eye. Eye specialists often detect them during routine eye health exams, so it’s important to attend regular appointments. This becomes increasingly important as you get older.
Updating your glasses prescription and opting for an anti-glare coating can improve your vision. Try to use brighter lighting for reading and other activities.
Another important measure is to wear sunglasses that block ultraviolet (UV) rays to help manage sensitivity to light.
Can early stage cataracts be reversed?
Early intervention, healthier lifestyle choices, and reduced exposure to risk factors can slow down the progression. They can also help to alleviate symptoms and delay the need for surgical intervention.
Stage two: immature cataracts
During this stage, the clouding of the lens becomes more apparent. While vision changes may be noticeable, they might not significantly impact your daily activities.
Symptoms
As the cataract develops into the immature stage, symptoms become more obvious. For example, you may experience:
Clouding of the lens will become more visible during this stage.
Treatment
Frequent prescription changes and brighter lighting can help manage symptoms during this stage. Regular eye health checks are important to monitor the progression of symptoms and determine the appropriate time for surgery.
Stage three: mature cataracts
As cataracts progress, your vision impairment will become more noticeable. Activities such as driving and recognising faces may become challenging.
At this point, it’s important to seek medical advice for further evaluation and treatment. This will usually involve surgery.
Symptoms
When a cataract progresses to the mature stage, symptoms may become more severe and can seriously impact your quality of life. They could include:
Cataract surgery is the most successful and most frequently performed operation in the UK. Every year, more than 400,000 cataract procedures are carried out in England, with over 90% of patients reporting a significant improvement in their vision.
Stage four: hypermature or advanced cataracts
At the mature stage, cataracts have reached their peak and are likely to cover most of the lens. Vision is severely compromised, and you may only be able to perceive light and dark with minimal form and detail.
Symptoms
Advanced cataracts can lead to significant blurring of vision or even complete vision loss.
Performing routine tasks may become extremely challenging. This can have a severe impact on your overall independence.
What do stage four cataracts look like?
During the advanced stage, the lens becomes shrunken with white spots. It may also partially dislocate at times or develop from secondary glaucoma.
Treatment
Cataract surgery remains the primary treatment option. However, there is a higher likelihood of complications if you wait longer to treat it.
Hear from our expert: “The main signs of having cataracts are cloudy or faded vision, seeing halos around lights, changes in your colour vision, and visible discolouration of your eye.“
It’s important to remember that everyone’s timeline can look different when it comes to the development of cataracts.
Cataracts tend to get worse over time and the operation can be performed at any stage of cataract development. There is no need to wait until your cataract is “ripe” before removing it.
How quickly do cataracts progress?
Cataract progression varies from person-to-person. Factors such as age, genetics, and lifestyle choices (i.e. smoking and diet) can influence the speed at which cataracts develop.
How do you tell if your cataracts are getting worse?
Regular eye exams are crucial for monitoring cataract progression. If you notice worsening symptoms, talk to your eye care professional.
At what stage are cataracts removed?
Most people choose to book their cataract surgery when the change in their vision starts to impact their quality of life. The decision to have surgery is an individual one based on your symptoms and lifestyle.
If you or a loved one is suffering from the symptoms of cataracts, get in touch to see if cataract surgery is right for you. Early intervention can significantly improve your vision and enhance your quality of life in the long run.
Mr Charles Kanavati MB ChB, FRCSEd, FRCOphth as Medical Director, is a Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon for Ophthalmology in Rochdale.
After two years in General surgery in Jerusalem, he completed higher surgical ophthalmology training at St John Eye Hospital in Jerusalem and UK in 1990. He acquired a wealth of clinical experience and leadership, working at St John Eye Hospital in Jerusalem as a Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon, Director of Clinical Research and Medical Director as well as in private practice until 2009. He then moved to Dubai to work as a Consultant Ophthalmologist, clinical lead and member of the Hospital Clinical Quality & Patient Safety (Including Morbidity & Mortality) Sub-Committee before returning to the UK.
Mr Kanavati is experienced in small incision and premium advanced technology cataract and IOL implant surgery, Retinal and Laser surgery.
