What are Cataracts?
A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens inside the eye. Cataracts are the leading cause of treatable blindness in all areas of the world, especially in adults 55 and older.
Contrary to popular belief, a cataract is not a "film" over the eye. Rather it is a gradual thickening of the lens that causes the lens to become so clouded that light is either distorted or cannot reach the back of the eye (the retina) for transmission to the brain. When left untreated, cataracts will eventually cause blindness in most cases.
Did You Know?
The word "cataract" is derived from the Greek "katarraktes," which means a down rushing, or waterfall. It was originally thought that congealed brain fluid was flowing in front of the lens in the eye, obstructing clear vision. Thus the word "cataract" itself contributes to the continued misunderstanding of what a cataract actually is.
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Copyright © 2010 Alcon, Inc., a global company based in Hünenberg, Switzerland. The information on this site is intended for U.S. audiences and is not to be interpreted as a substitute for medical advice from your doctor.
