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What are the types of cataracts?
There are different types of opacities that cause cataracts. Each is described by its location within the lens. The most common type of cataract is the one associated with aging: the nuclear cataract. Often, patients have features of more than one type.
A nuclear cataract occurs in the center of the lens. Common symptoms include blurring or dimming of your vision, glare and visual distortion. A nuclear cataract makes the vision seem dimmer and patients typically feel that they need to use strong lights in order to read books or magazines. Everyone starts getting early nuclear cataract changes in their 50s and this may contribute to the need for reading glasses or bifocals.
A cortical cataract begins as wedge-shaped opacities in the cortex of the lens, much like spokes on the wheel of a bicycle. The spokes extend from the outside of the lens to the center. When the spokes reach the center, they interfere with the transmission of light and cause glare and haziness to the vision. A cortical cataract typically develops slowly, but it may impair both distance and near vision so significantly that surgery may be indicated at a relatively early stage.
A subcapsular cataract develops slowly and starts as a small grain-like opacity under the capsule, usually at the back of the lens. Significant visual symptoms may not appear until the cataract is well developed. Typical symptoms are glare and blur. A subcapsular cataract is often found in people with diabetes or high levels of myopia, and in people taking steroids.
Nuclear Cataract
Overall cloudiness of the lens
Cortical Cataract
Spokes of opacities
Subcapsular Cataract
Central grainy opacities
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