Cataracts Awareness Month
June is Cataracts Awareness Month. Over half a million people have cataract surgery every year in the UK. Whether you’re worried about your eyes, have been diagnosed with cataracts or are supporting someone who has, we’re here to support you at every step.
Cataracts are when the lens in your eye becomes cloudy
The lens is normally clear. It lets light into the eye and helps us see clearly. Developing cataracts will make your sight cloudy, misty or blurry.
Cataracts are a normal part of getting older. Most people start to develop cataracts after the age of 65. If you have diabetes or take certain medications, you may develop them sooner.
Symptoms of cataracts
The symptoms of cataracts normally develop slowly.
Common symptoms of cataracts include blurry vision, colours looking faded, needing more light for everyday tasks like reading and cooking and being sensitive to bright light. The video below has more information to help you spot the signs of cataracts.
Understanding cataracts
Talk to your eye care professional
When you’re diagnosed with cataracts, it’s important to ask your eye care professional any questions you have. They can explain the options available in your individual circumstances, help you manage your symptoms or seek treatment if it’s needed.
Manage your symptoms
Making things bigger a bolder, using task lighting and accessible technology or optical magnification can make life easier. We have a guide to help you make the most of your sight.
Cataracts are treated with surgery
Cataracts gradually get worse. If you want to improve your sight, you’ll need cataract surgery. Cataract surgery removes your cloudy lens and replaces it with a clear artificial one. You don’t have to have surgery, but without it your vision will become cloudier.
Your sight will get cloudier if you delay the surgery, but the results afterwards will be the same as if you had it done earlier. Your eye care professional will tell you if for any reason they think you should have earlier treatment. For example, if you have another eye condition that’s being affected by the cataract.
Waiting for cataract surgery
How long you might need to wait for cataract surgery depends on the waiting times in your local area.
Coping with poor sight while you’re waiting can be difficult. You don’t have to manage alone. You can talk to your eye clinic or your GP for help. The video below has tips to help you manage your sight while you’re waiting.
Get help with cataracts
We’re here if you need help with cataracts. Call us on 0303 123 9999 (from 8am-8pm weekdays and 9am-1pm on Saturdays) or email [email protected].
Speak to your local Eye Care Liaison Officer (ECLO)
An ECLO can give you information, emotional support and advice if you have a condition which affects your sight – including cataracts.
They work in a variety of eye care locations, including hospitals and eye clinics.
If you’d like to contact an ECLO, visit our ECLO page or contact our Helpline on 0303 123 9999.
Helpful booklets
We have more information about cataracts in our Understanding Cataracts booklet.
In this campaign
More information about cataracts
Find out more in-depth information about cataracts and how to look after your eyes.
Find out more about quick changes that can make life easier while you’re waiting for cataract surgery.
An eye examination is an important health check for your eyes and most people should have their eyes tested at least once every two years. Find out what happens at an eye test and how to find an optician.