10 Things You Might Not Know About Cataracts

For many people, the gradual loss of sharp vision—blurry eyesight, faded colours, and difficulty seeing at night—is chalked up to simply “getting older.” But according to Dr. Noraini Nadior, Consultant Ophthalmologist at KPJ Damansara Specialist Hospital, these could be signs of something treatable: cataracts.

“Cataracts are one of the most common causes of visual impairment,” says Dr. Noraini. “But what many don’t realise is how manageable they are with the right treatment and timing.”

What Exactly Is a Cataract?

A cataract occurs when the natural lens of the eye—located behind the iris and pupil—becomes cloudy. This cloudiness blocks light from reaching the retina clearly, resulting in blurred or dull vision. The condition is most commonly linked to ageing, often appearing after the age of 60. However, age isn’t the only factor.

1. Cataracts Don’t Just Affect the Elderly

While cataracts are often age-related, they can also occur in younger adults or even children. Congenital cataracts are present at birth and can be caused by genetics, infections during pregnancy, or metabolic conditions.

2. UV Exposure Can Increase Risk

Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light can accelerate the development of cataracts by damaging the proteins in the eye’s lens. Dr. Noraini recommends wearing sunglasses with UV protection and wide-brimmed hats to help reduce this risk.

3. Eye Drops Can’t Cure Cataracts (Yet)

There has been interest in eye drops as a non-surgical treatment for cataracts, but Dr. Noraini clarifies that this is still in the research stage.

“At this point, there's no reliable evidence that any eye drop can reverse a cataract. It’s a structural change in the lens that needs surgical correction.”

4. Some Babies Are Born with Cataracts

Some babies are born with cataracts, called congenital cataracts. These can affect one or both eyes and may cause lazy eye or serious issues like retinal detachment. Early treatment is key to protecting the child’s vision.

5. Cataract Surgery May Support Brain Health

Improving vision doesn’t just help with daily life—it may also benefit brain function. Research shows that restoring sight through cataract surgery can reduce the risk of cognitive decline and even dementia, likely due to increased sensory input and improved social interaction.

6. The World Looks More Colourful After Surgery

Patients often describe the experience of cataract surgery as “seeing the world again.” Colours become brighter and clearer once the cloudy lens is removed.

“The yellowish tint that cataracts cast over your vision is gone, so colours become more vivid,” says Dr. Noraini.

7. Cataract Surgery Is Safe and Highly Successful

Cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed and safest procedures in medicine today. The success rate is high—around 90 to 95%—with most patients experiencing a significant improvement in their vision. The cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL) during a quick, outpatient procedure.

8. Cataracts Can Be Hereditary

Cataracts can sometimes run in families. Genetic conditions such as Down syndrome, Marfan syndrome, and other inherited disorders may increase the likelihood of developing cataracts early in life.

9. Modern IOLs Can Do More Than Restore Vision

Today’s intraocular lenses (IOLs) can correct more than just blurry vision. Some advanced IOLs can also address astigmatism, reduce glare, and offer protection from blue light and UV rays. Others adjust to lighting conditions, similar to photochromic glasses.

10. Cataracts Are Still the Leading Cause of Blindness Globally

Despite how treatable cataracts are, they remain the number one cause of blindness around the world—responsible for nearly half of all blindness cases. The good news is that this form of vision loss is often reversible through surgery.

“Cataracts often develop slowly, so it’s easy to dismiss the signs,” says Dr. Noraini. “But vision loss doesn’t have to be a part of ageing. With early detection and proper care, we can restore not just eyesight, but also confidence, independence, and quality of life.”

Patients are encouraged to have regular eye exams, especially after the age of 50, or if they notice symptoms like glare, cloudy vision, or difficulty driving at night.

If you or someone you love is struggling with vision changes, don’t wait. Cataracts are treatable—and the results can be life-changing. To speak with our specialist, contact us at +603-7718 1000 or visit kpjhealth.com.my/damansara.