Cortical cataracts: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and More
Cataracts are a common eye condition that affects millions of people worldwide, especially with age. Among the different types of cataracts, cortical cataracts are one of the most frequently diagnosed. They develop in a specific part of the eye’s lens and come with their own set of symptoms and treatment needs.
In this blog, we will explore everything you need to know about cortical cataracts — from how they form to how they are treated.
What are cortical cataracts?
A cortical cataract is a type of cataract that forms in the cortex of the eye’s lens. The cortex is the outer layer of the lens, and in cortical cataracts, this area becomes cloudy due to the development of white, wedge-like opacities. These opacities often resemble the spokes of a wheel, starting from the outer edge of the lens and moving toward the centere.
Cortical cataracts can affect both eyes and tend to progress gradually. However, they can significantly interfere with vision over time, especially in bright or low-light environments.
Symptoms of cortical cataracts
Cortical cataracts can cause various symptoms depending on how advanced the clouding is. Common symptoms include:
Glare and Haloes
One of the earliest signs is increased sensitivity to light, especially glare from headlights or sunlight. Many people notice haloes around lights, particularly at night.
Blurred or Cloudy vision
As the cataract grows inward, it interferes with how light enters the eye, resulting in blurry or foggy vision.
Difficulty seeing at night
Night vision becomes more challenging as the cataract scatters light and reduces contrast.
Double vision in one eye
Some people experience monocular double vision (seeing two images from one eye).
Washed-out colours
Colours may appear faded or less vibrant due to clouding of the lens.
If you notice any of these symptoms, especially if they interfere with daily activities, it is important to see an eye specialist.
Causes and Risk factors
Cortical cataracts can result from a combination of factors, including aging and lifestyle choices. Here are the most common causes and risk factors:
Ageing
Most cortical cataracts are age-related and develop as a natural part of ageing, especially after age 60.
Diabetes
High blood sugar can lead to changes in the lens, making diabetic individuals more prone to cortical cataracts.
Excessive sun exposure
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can damage the proteins in the lens, increasing the risk.
Smoking and Alcohol
Smoking and heavy alcohol consumption are both linked to increased risk of cataract formation.
Eye injuries
Past trauma to the eye may contribute to cataract development.
Genetics
A family history of cataracts can increase your likelihood of developing them.
How are cortical cataracts diagnosed?
An ophthalmologist or optometrist can diagnose cortical cataracts through a comprehensive eye exam, which may include:
- Visual acuity test – to measure how well you see at various distances.
- Slit-lamp examination – to allow a detailed view of the lens and detect any clouding.
- Retinal exam – to assess the health of the retina behind the lens.
- Tonometry – to measure intraocular pressure, especially if glaucoma is suspected.
Treatment options
1. Non-Surgical management (Early stages)
In the early stages, when symptoms are mild, cataracts can often be managed with:
- Change to glasses script.
- Anti-glare sunglasses.
- Brighter lighting at home and work.
- Routine monitoring of vision changes.
However, these measures are temporary and do not stop the progression.
2. Surgical treatment
When the cataract begins to interfere with vision and daily life, surgery becomes the most effective treatment option.
Cataract surgery
- A quick, safe, and effective outpatient procedure.
- The cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens, known as an intraocular lens (IOL).
- Most people experience a dramatic improvement in vision within a few days after surgery.
Types of cataract surgery:
- Phacoemulsification (most common)
- Femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery.
- Manual small incision cataract surgery (in certain cases)
Your ophthalmologist will determine the best surgical approach based on your eye health and vision needs.
Recovery after surgery
Cataract surgery usually has a fast recovery. Here is what to expect:
- Use of prescribed eye drops for several weeks.
- Avoid rubbing the eye or engaging in strenuous activities.
- Protect the eye from dust, water, and strong light.
- Follow-up visits to monitor healing.
Most people resume normal activities within a few days and enjoy significantly better vision.
Can cortical cataracts be prevented?
While not all cataracts can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk or slow their progression:
Prevention tips:
- Wear UV-protective sunglasses.
- Control blood sugar levels if diabetic.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake.
- Eat a healthy, antioxidant-rich diet (leafy greens, fruits, fish).
- Regular eye check-ups, especially after age 50.
- Manage other health conditions like hypertension and obesity.
Conclusion
Cortical cataracts are a common age-related eye condition that can gradually impair your vision and affect your quality of life. While they often begin with subtle symptoms like glare and cloudy vision, they can progress over time and make everyday activities more difficult. Fortunately, early diagnosis, lifestyle adjustments, and timely surgical intervention can effectively manage and treat cortical cataracts.
Schedule an appointment today at Clarity Eye Surgeons and take the first step towards clearer, healthier vision.
Author bio
Dr Parth Shah is a leading ophthalmologist in Canberra, specialising in cataract surgery. With extensive training and experience, he is renowned for his expertise in the field. Dr Shah is dedicated not only to performing successful surgeries but also to patient education. His compassionate approach, combined with technical proficiency, has earned him the trust and gratitude of countless patients. He is a true advocate for eye health and a trusted name in the Canberra ophthalmology community.
FAQs
While they are more common after the age of 60 years, cortical cataracts can begin to develop as early as your 40s, especially if risk factors like diabetes or excessive sun exposure are present.
Cortical cataracts are common but not necessarily more prevalent. The type of cataract varies with age and health conditions. Nuclear cataracts are typically age-related, while posterior subcapsular cataracts are more common in people with diabetes or on steroid medications.
No, cataracts themselves cannot return after the cloudy lens is replaced. However, a condition called posterior capsule opacification (PCO), sometimes called a “secondary cataract,” can develop and may require a quick laser treatment to restore clear vision.
Yes. Cortical cataracts often cause more issues with glare and light scatter compared to nuclear cataracts, which primarily reduce distance vision. Posterior subcapsular cataracts tend to cause more problems with reading and bright light sensitivity.
No, lifestyle changes cannot reverse cataracts, but they can help slow the progression and maintain overall eye health. Once significant clouding occurs, cataract surgery is the only effective treatment.
There is no universal timeline. The decision depends on how much the cataract is affecting your daily life. If symptoms are manageable, surgery can be delayed. However, waiting a long time for the cataract to become more advanced is not recommended.
