Smoking and alcohol intake, however, have been implicated in cataract formation, as have the use of oral corticosteriods and antihypertensive agents. Some studies have determined that a diet high in fat increases the likelihood of cataract formation, while an increase in foods rich in antioxidants reduces the incidence. More research is needed to determine the precise role played by diet, smoking, alcohol consumption, and antioxidants in the formation of cataracts.

Some unrelated physical conditions, such as diabetes mellitus, also may contribute to cataracts. Eye injuries and sun exposure also are causative factors.

There are several common symptoms of cataracts:

gradual, painless onset of blurry, filmy, or fuzzy vision

poor central vision

frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions

changes in color vision

increased glare from lights, especially oncoming headlights when driving at night

“second sight” improvement in near vision (no longer needing reading glasses)

poor vision in sunlight

presence of a milky whiteness in the pupil as the cataract progresses

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