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Woman outdoors in sunlight wearing sports eyewear, representing healthy vision and an active lifestyle with ZEISS eye care​.
UNDERSTANDING CATARACTS

Is your vision becoming cloudy or blurry?

It could be a sign of cataracts.

Cataracts – Clearly Explained

From the first signs of cataracts to surgery and recovery, our video series breaks down complex topics into clear, straightforward explanations.
  • Understanding Cataracts

    Understanding Cataracts
  • What to expect from cataract surgery

    What to expect from cataract surgery
  • Choosing the right lens for your vision – questions to think about

    Choosing the right lens for your vision – questions to think about

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    Learn what cataracts are, why they develop, how they affect your vision, and when it may be time to speak with an eye care professional.
    Understanding Cataracts

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    Learn how cataract surgery works, what to expect before, during and after the procedure, and how it can help restore clearer vision.
    What to expect from cataract surgery

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    Explore lens options and the questions to discuss with your eye doctor.
    Choosing the right lens for your vision – questions to think about
Vision & eye health

See the world through a cataract

Slide through the stages of a clouding lens and watch a familiar moment lose its sharpness, color and contrast.

An older couple smiling at each other outdoors in warm evening light Healthy vision With cataract

Drag the handle across the photo to compare healthy and cataract vision.

Cataract severity Moderate · 58%

Noticeable blur, stronger glare and a clear yellow shift.

For education and awareness only. This simulator is not a medical device and does not diagnose any condition. Please consult an eye-care professional about your vision.

Close-up image of an eye with a clear, unobstructed pupil.
Close-up image of an eye with a cloudy, blurred pupil, illustrating a cataract.

Why do cataracts develop?

Cataracts are a common part of aging.

As you get older, the natural lens inside your eye gradually becomes cloudy. It's a bit like looking through a foggy camera lens – the cloudier the lens becomes, the less clear your vision appears.
Ageing is the most common cause of cataracts. However, some health conditions and lifestyle factors can increase your risk, including diabetes, smoking, long-term use of steroid medication and previous eye injuries.

The good news is that cataracts can usually be treated successfully. During a surgical procedure, the cloudy lens is replaced with a clear artificial lens, helping many people enjoy clearer vision again.

Learn more about cataract surgery

What are the common symptoms of cataracts?

The signs are often gradual and easy to miss. Because cataracts usually develop slowly, you may not notice any changes at first. As they progress, everyday tasks can become more difficult.

  • Cloudy, blurred vision

    Vision turns hazy or foggy, as if looking through a frosted window.

  • Glare & halos

    Bright lights cause glare and rings, making night driving difficult.

  • Faded colors

    Colors look dull and develop a yellow or brownish tint over time.

  • Night driving

    Vision turns hazy or foggy, as if looking through a frosted window.

  • Glasses don't help

    Vision remains blurry even with the right glasses or a new prescription.

  • Reading becomes harder

    Words may be harder to make out, especially in small print or dim light.

Woman relaxing in a swimming pool symbolising clear vision and lifestyle freedom after cataract surgery with intraocular lenses​.

How are cataracts treated?

Clearer vision could be closer than you think.

If cataracts begin to affect your daily life, your eye care professional may recommend cataract surgery. It is the only effective treatment for cataracts and is one of the most commonly performed eye proceduresworldwide.

During a routine procedure, the cloudy natural lens is replaced with a clear artificial lens, known as an intraocular lens (IOL). The procedure is usually carried out as day surgery, allowing most people to return home the same day.
Because every person's eyes and lifestyle are different, there are different types of intraocular lenses designed to support a range of vision needs. Your eye care professional will help you choose the option that's best for you.

Discover how cataract surgery works

Thinking about cataract surgery?

Find answers to your most important questions—from how cataract surgery works to choosing the right lens and knowing when to book a consultation.