Vision problems can arise from various eye conditions, making it challenging to determine
the cause of blurry vision, glare, or discomfort. Cataracts are a common age-related
condition, but they are not the only issue that can affect eyesight. Understanding the key
differences between cataracts and other eye conditions can help in early diagnosis and
effective treatment.
What Are Cataracts?
Cataracts occur when the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, leading to blurred vision,
difficulty seeing in dim light, and increased glare sensitivity. They typically develop slowly
over time and are most common in older adults.
Symptoms of Cataracts
- Blurry or cloudy vision
- Increased sensitivity to light and glare
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Fading or yellowing of colors
- Frequent changes in eyeglass prescription
How Cataracts Differ from Other Eye Conditions
Cataracts share symptoms with other vision problems, but key differences set them apart.
Here’s how cataracts compare to other common eye conditions:
- Cataracts vs. Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a condition that damages the optic nerve due to increased intraocular
pressure. Unlike cataracts, which cause cloudy vision, glaucoma leads to gradual peripheral
vision loss and can result in blindness if untreated.
Key Differences:
- Cataracts affect the eye’s lens, leading to cloudy vision.
- Glaucoma affects the optic nerve, causing tunnel vision and peripheral vision loss.
- Pain & Pressure: Cataracts are painless, while some forms of glaucoma cause eye
- pain and pressure.
- Cataracts vs. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
AMD affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp vision. Unlike
cataracts, which cause overall blurriness, AMD primarily affects central vision, leading to
blind spots or distortion.