n low light
• Increased nearsightedness (you might temporarily feel like your reading vision has improved, known as “second sight”)
• Colours may appear faded or yellowed
This type progresses slowly and may not be noticed in its early stages. However, it can significantly impact daily tasks like reading or driving, especially at night.

2. Cortical Cataracts
How it forms:
Cortical cataracts begin at the outer edge of the lens (the cortex) and develop inward, creating spoke-like opacities.
How it affects vision:
• Glare and halos around lights, especially at night
• Difficulty with contrast and depth perception
• Blurred or scattered vision
• More noticeable issues during night driving
Since the cloudy wedges grow inward, vision may become progressively distorted from the periphery toward the center.

3. Posterior Subcapsular Cataracts
How it forms:
This type forms at the back of the lens, just beneath the lens capsule. It is more common in people with diabetes, those taking high doses of steroids, or younger individuals.
How it affects vision:
• Significant glare in bright light or sunlight
• Difficulty reading and seeing in bright environments
• Hazy or cloudy vision
• Rapid progression compared to other cataracts
Even small opacities in this area can noticeably impair vision, especially under bright lighting conditions.

4. Congenital Cataracts
How it forms:
Some babies are born with cataracts, or they may develop them during childhood. These can be genetic or caused by infections during pregnancy, metabolic disorders, or trauma.
How it affects vision:
• Poor vision development in infants
• Misalignment of the eyes (strabismus)
• Nystagmus (involuntary eye movement)
• Lazy eye (amblyopia)
Early diagnosis is critical because untreated congenital cataracts can lead to permanent visual impairment. Surgery is often needed to preserve vision.

5. Traumatic Cataracts
How it forms:
These occur after an injury to the eye, either blunt trauma or penetration. They can develop immediately or years later, depending on the severity and nature of the injury.
How it affects vision:
• Localised cloudiness at the site of impact
• Blurred or double vision
• Glare sensitivity
• Possible lens dislocation
Proper eye protection during risky activities can reduce the chances of developing traumatic cataracts.

6. Secondary Cataracts
How it forms:
These aren’t cataracts in the traditional sense but are complications that occur after cataract surgery. The lens capsule that holds the new artificial lens can become cloudy over time.
How it affects vision:
• Blurred or hazy vision months or years after cataract surgery
• Sensitivity to bright lights
• Similar symptoms to the original cataract
Treatment involves a painless laser procedure (YAG capsulotomy) that restores clear vision in a few minutes.

How Cataracts Progress
Cataracts are typically progressive, meaning they worsen over time. Some types, like nuclear sclerotic cataracts, advance slowly, while others, like posterior subcapsular, can deteriorate rapidly.
You may not notice symptoms initially, but eventually, cataracts can interfere with reading, watching television, driving at night, or even recognising faces.

Diagnosis and Treatment
Early detection is key. Regular eye exams help track the development of cataracts and determine the right time for treatment. Surgery is the only effective cure for cataracts, removing the clouded lens and replacing it with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL).
Modern cataract surgery is a safe, outpatient procedure with high success rates. Recovery is quick, and most people notice a dramatic improvement in vision within a few days.

Vision Care at Malabar Maxivision Eye Hospital
When the world begins to fade, Malabar Maxivision Eye Hospital is where clarity returns. Backed by advanced diagnostic tools, skilled ophthalmologists, and cutting-edge surgical techniques, we offer personalised care for every type of cataract.
Whether you’re facing a slow decline in sight or struggling with sudden light sensitivity, our team ensures you don’t just see better, you live better. From early screenings to seamless cataract surgeries, we restore more than your vision, we restore your confidence.
Trust your eyes with those who see the future of eye care.
Cataracts may be common, but with the right care, they don’t have to cloud your world. Recognising the different types of cataracts and understanding how cataracts affect vision is the first step toward protecting your sight.
So if the colours seem dull, the lights too harsh, or the words a little blurry, don’t brush it off. Get your eyes checked and see the difference expert care can make.
See life in its true colours. Trust the experts. Choose Malabar Maxivision.