If you’ve noticed your vision becoming a little hazy, colours losing their vibrancy, or driving at night becoming more difficult due to glare, it might be time to consider whether cataracts could be the cause. Cataracts are one of the most common eye conditions affecting Australians, especially as we age. But not all cataracts are the same. So what are the 3 types of cataracts?
This article will tackle the primary types of cataracts, what makes them unique, how they affect your vision, and the treatment options available. Whether you’re researching for yourself or a loved one, this guide is designed to give you the clarity you need.
What Exactly Are Cataracts?
Cataracts occur when the eye’s natural lens, normally clear, becomes cloudy, making it harder for light to pass through and focus on the retina. This clouded lens results in blurred vision, trouble with bright light, and sometimes even double vision.
Why Does the Lens Become Cloudy?
The clouding is usually a result of protein changes within the lens. These changes can be linked to ageing, eye diseases, medical conditions, or even trauma. Over time, the lens loses its transparency, resulting in various forms of visual impairment.
What Are The 3 Types Of Cataracts?
Let’s explore the three primary types of cataracts in more detail:
1. Nuclear Sclerotic Cataract
You might notice cataract symptoms like:
- Gradual dimming of vision.
- Yellowing or dulling of colours.
- Difficulty with night vision.
- Temporary improvement in close-up vision (called “second sight”) in the early stages.
This cataract progresses due to the natural ageing process. As the lens hardens and yellows, vision becomes less sharp.
Risk factors for these types of cataracts are:
- Age (mostly common in people over 60)
- Smoking
- Too much alcohol
- Family history
- Medical conditions like diabetes
2. Cortical Cataracts
Cortical cataracts begin at the outer edge of the lens, affecting the lens cortex, the white, outer layer surrounding the nucleus. Over time, wedge-like opacities extend towards the centre, creating a spoke-like pattern.
You might experience:
- Glare or haloes around lights
- Light sensitivity
- Trouble distinguishing contrast and colour
- Distorted or blurry vision
This type of cataract is more likely in people with:
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Frequent exposure to UV light
3. Posterior Subcapsular Cataracts
This type of cataract forms at the back of the lens, just in front of the lens capsule. Although smaller than other types, posterior subcapsular cataracts affect vision more significantly, especially with bright light or reading.
You might notice:
- Difficulty reading
- Glare or haloes in well-lit environments
- Reduced vision in bright sunlight
- Rapid progression compared to other cataract forms
This cataract type is often linked to:
- Steroid use
- Diabetes
- Radiation exposure
- Certain eye surgeries
How Cataracts Progress Over Time
Cataracts don’t always appear suddenly. In many cases, they develop gradually, often so slowly that you may not even realise your vision is changing. This is why regular eye health assessments play such a valuable role in maintaining clarity and comfort as you age.
The Early Stages: Subtle But Significant
The signs may be barely noticeable in the beginning. Your eye’s natural lens may already be starting to cloud, but your brain often adapts, compensating for minor changes in vision. It’s common to dismiss these early shifts as part of everyday life or simply a need for a stronger prescription.
As Cataracts Progress
- A growing need for brighter lighting when reading or working
- More frequent changes to your glasses or contact lenses
- Increasing difficulty with night vision, especially when driving
- Finding it harder to see clearly in dim or low-light settings
Each person’s experience is unique, but recognising these gradual signs can help you take timely action. The earlier you identify changes, the more options you may have to manage your visual comfort and quality of life.
Diagnosing Cataracts
If you’re experiencing changes in your vision, the first step is to book a thorough eye examination with a qualified eye care professional.
They’ll carefully assess your eyes, listen to your concerns, and look for signs indicating developing cataracts or other vision-related changes.
Why Early Detection Matters
Catching cataracts in their early stages can make a real difference. The earlier they’re identified, the more opportunities you may have to explore suitable treatment options and protect your long-term eye health.
Regular eye checks aren’t just for when something feels wrong; they’re a powerful way to stay ahead and make informed choices about your vision.
Cataract Treatment Options
If you or someone you care about is living with cataracts, it’s natural to wonder what can be done. The good news is that there are a range of ways to support your vision and comfort, especially when cataracts are detected early.
Non-Surgical Approaches
In the early stages, your ophthalmologist might recommend:
- Brighter lighting at home
- Stronger prescriptions
- Anti-glare sunglasses
- Adjustments to your daily habits
When Is Surgery Needed?
When cataracts interfere with daily life, surgery may be the appropriate treatment. It’s considered one of the most commonly performed surgeries in the world, and for good reason.
Cataract Surgery: What To Expect
Knowing what’s involved can help you feel more confident and prepared if you’re considering cataract surgery. While the idea of surgery on the eye may sound daunting, the procedure itself is generally gentle, straightforward, and commonly performed around the world.
The Procedure
Cataract surgery involves using an artificial lens, also known as an intraocular lens (IOL), to restore clear vision.
How It Works
- A small incision is made in the edge of the lens
- The cloudy lens is gently broken up and removed
- A clear, artificial lens is inserted
- The eye heals naturally, usually without stitches
What Makes It Reliable?
In experienced hands, cataract surgery is a predictable procedure with a strong record of success in restoring vision.
Life After Cataract Surgery
Wondering what life looks like after cataract surgery? While each person’s journey is unique, many people find that their day-to-day life feels brighter, clearer, and more comfortable once they’ve had time to recover.
What Recovery Typically Looks Like
Most people begin to notice improvements in their vision within just a few days after surgery. Tasks like reading, watching television, or navigating outdoors may become noticeably easier.
That said, it’s important to allow your eyes time to heal fully, a process that can take several weeks. During this time, avoiding strain and following your aftercare plan can help support a smooth recovery.
Attending Follow-Up Visits
Ongoing care after surgery plays a key role in protecting your results. You’ll likely be scheduled for follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure everything is progressing as expected.
Your eye care provider may also recommend prescribed eye drops to help reduce inflammation and support healing. These visits are also a great opportunity to ask questions and receive personalised guidance.
Your Visual Outlook
- Noticeably clearer vision
- Improved nighttime visibility, with less glare
- Enhanced colour perception, making everyday life feel more vibrant
Life after cataract surgery often brings a renewed sense of ease and confidence. Whether it’s seeing loved ones more clearly, enjoying your favourite hobbies, or simply going about your routine with less effort, many people describe the experience as a positive turning point in their visual journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you prevent cataracts?
While you can’t guarantee prevention, you can reduce your risk by:
- Wearing sunglasses that block UV rays
- Managing chronic conditions
- Eating a diet rich in antioxidants
- Avoiding smoking
Can cataracts go away on their own?
Cataracts do not go away. They often develop slowly and may not need immediate treatment, but only surgery can remove them.
Is cataract surgery painful?
Cataract surgery is typically performed under local anaesthesia. Most people feel minimal discomfort during the procedure.
What are secondary cataracts?
After cataract surgery, a condition known as a secondary cataract can sometimes occur. This happens when the lens capsule, the thin membrane that holds the new lens in place, becomes cloudy over time. Although it may feel similar to a cataract, it’s not the same condition and can usually be treated with a quick laser procedure to restore clear vision.
Conclusion
Understanding the different types of cataracts, from nuclear sclerotic cataracts to cortical and posterior subcapsular cataracts, empowers you to make better decisions about your eye health.
If you’re experiencing changes in your vision or simply want to stay ahead of potential concerns, consider booking a comprehensive eye examination. Remember, early detection and prompt treatment make a world of difference.
Cataracts may be a common part of ageing, but that doesn’t mean they have to slow you down. With the right information and expert care, you can take confident steps towards maintaining clear vision and enjoying the world in vibrant detail.
If you’re noticing changes in your vision or simply want to stay proactive about your eye health, we’re here to guide you through your options and answer any questions you may have about cataracts or vision care.
Get in touch with Dr Edward Roufail at (03) 9071 0180 today to book a consultation or learn more about how we can support your journey towards a clearer, more comfortable vision.
Note: Surgical or invasive procedures carry inherent risks. As part of our standard practice, we thoroughly discuss these risks during the consent process before any surgical procedure. Your understanding and comfort are our utmost priority.
References
Jones R. What to Know About Nuclear Sclerosis [Internet]. Medical News Today. 2023 [cited 2025 Jul 25]. Available from: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/nuclear-sclerosis
Yetman D. Cortical Cataract: What Is This, and How Does It Affect Your Eyes? [Internet]. Healthline. 2023 [cited 2025 Jul 25]. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/eye-health/cortical-cataract
WebMD Editorial Contributors. What Are the Symptoms of Cataracts? When Should I Call the Doctor? [Internet]. WebMD. 2025 [cited 2025 Jul 25]. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/cataracts/symptoms-of-cataracts-when-to-call-the-doctor
Lipner M. Pseudophakia to Treat Cataracts [Internet]. Verywell Health. 2025 [cited 2025 Jul 25]. Available from: https://www.verywellhealth.com/pseudophakia-5116181
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