What Are Cataracts?

A cataract occurs when the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, preventing light from passing through clearly. Many patients describe cataract vision as similar to looking through a foggy or smudged window—no amount of cleaning improves it without professional care. As cataracts progress, everyday tasks such as reading, driving, or recognizing faces can become increasingly difficult. Over time, the clouding expands and distorts more of your visual field, affecting both comfort and quality of life.

How Do Cataracts Develop?

Most cataracts form naturally with age, but they can also result from eye injuries, medical conditions, or certain medications. Cataracts develop when proteins inside the lens clump together, blocking light from reaching the retina.

A healthy lens focuses light to create sharp, clear images. When a cataract forms, the lens scatters light instead—leading to blurry, hazy, or distorted vision. As the lens becomes thicker and less flexible over time, cataract symptoms gradually worsen.

Cataract Symptoms

Cataracts often develop slowly and may not affect vision in the early stages. As they progress, symptoms may include:

• Cloudy or blurred vision

• Faded or yellowed colors

• Frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescriptions

• Difficulty seeing at night

• Increased glare or light sensitivity

• Double vision in one eye

If you notice any of these changes, a comprehensive eye exam can help determine whether cataracts are the cause.

Types of Treatable Cataracts

Marano Eye Care treats all major types of cataracts using advanced diagnostic technology and personalized surgical planning. The four primary types include:

Nuclear Cataracts

These form in the center of the lens and may initially cause temporary nearsightedness. Over time, the lens becomes increasingly yellow and hardened, reducing clarity and affecting distance vision.

Cortical Cataracts

Cortical cataracts appear as wedge‑shaped, white opacities around the outer edge of the lens. As they progress toward the center, they often cause significant glare sensitivity.

Posterior Subcapsular Cataracts

These develop at the back of the lens and interfere directly with light entering the retina. They tend to cause glare, difficulty reading, and trouble seeing in bright light.

Congenital Cataracts

Present at birth or early childhood, congenital cataracts may result from genetic conditions or infections during pregnancy. Early diagnosis is essential to protect long‑term vision.

Cataract Treatment in New Jersey

You don’t have to let cataracts limit your daily life. At Marano Eye Care, our experienced ophthalmologists use state‑of‑the‑art technology to diagnose cataracts and provide customized treatment options—including advanced cataract surgery—to restore clear, comfortable vision.

We are committed to delivering exceptional care with your comfort and quality of life as our top priorities. Contact our Livingston, Newark, or Denville offices to schedule a comprehensive eye exam and learn more about the cataract procedures and diagnostic tests we offer.

Let us focus on your vision so you can enjoy life with clarity again.