Different Cataract Types Have Slightly Different Symptoms

Essentially, a cataract is defined as a clouding over of the lens of the eye, but there are three main cataract types that develop and manifest with slightly different symptoms. A medical professional will be able to diagnose which type of cataract you may have by distinguishing between the varying symptoms of each kind.

Nuclear cataracts, which:
- Occur in the center of the lens of the eye and alter the eye's focusing capabilities
- May increase nearsightedness (inability to see at farther distances)
- May, surprisingly, give people temporary better close-up vision, so they can read without reading glasses before the condition worsens.
- Cause the lens of the eye to turn yellow or brown
- Create problems with night driving and seeing in dim light
- May result in a type of color-blindness, in which patients cannot distinguish blue from purple
Cortical cataracts, which:
- Create a white streak or spot on the outer portion of the eye lens that others can see
- Eventually spread to the center of the lens
- Generally cause problems seeing in conditions where glare is present
Subcapsular cataracts, which:
- Occur behind the lens "capsule," differentiating it from the other cataract types that occur on the lens of the eye. Medical experts also refer to this condition as a "secondary cataract."
- Obstruct light as it is passing to the retina
- Cause problems while reading
- May result in problems with glare
- May reduce vision in bright lights or create a halo effect around lights
- May develop after surgery to correct a cataract on the lens. In this case, it is known as an "after-cataract."

While it's rare, cataracts can also develop in young people, called juvenile cataracts. All of these cataract types must be addressed by an eye doctor, so if you are experiencing any of the symptoms associated with a nuclear, cortical, or subcapsular cataract, contact your ophthalmologist immediately, even if your symptoms are mild.