What Are the Stages of Cataracts?

Although there are different types of cataracts, they all progress through the same four stages: early, immature, mature, and hypermature.

Cataracts are a condition in which the eye’s lens becomes cloudy, leading to decreased vision over time.

This condition can affect anyone but is most common in older adults. It can also occur at birth or occur as a result of other factors like injury and medical conditions like diabetes.

As cataracts progress, they can lead to various symptoms, including blurry vision, increased sensitivity to light, and a gradual deterioration in vision. This can make everyday activities like reading and driving challenging.

Although there are different types of cataracts, they all progress through the same four stages.

This article explores the different stages of cataracts, including their symptoms and possible treatment options.

How are cataracts staged?

The staging of cataracts is a system primarily used by researchers and eye doctors to understand the condition’s progression. Surgeons may also use this staging to decide when to perform cataract surgery and assess eligibility for insurance coverage.

Based on academic research and medical studies, this staging system standardizes how healthcare professionals evaluate the progression of cataracts. It helps them communicate more effectively about the condition’s severity and its effect on vision.

However, healthcare professionals don’t typically use this staging during regular doctor visits. Therefore, for most people, understanding the stages of cataracts isn’t as helpful as knowing the type of cataract you have because different types can have varying symptoms and treatment options.

Early stage cataracts

Early cataracts often develop in people who are younger. In the early stage, the lens develops small cloudy areas. Vision may remain clear, and you may not notice any symptoms or may notice only a few changes, including:

• slightly blurred vision
• increased sensitivity to light and glare
• frequent eyestrain
• muted colors

Immature cataracts

Immature cataracts are characterized by partial clouding of the lens, which means the lens has not become completely opaque. This stage allows some light to pass through to the retina, so while vision may be altered, complete blindness is not immediate.

Common symptoms at this stage include:

• more noticeable blurriness
• difficulty seeing in low light
• increased glare and halos around lights
• colors appear duller or more faded

Mature cataracts

Mature cataracts occur when the entire lens becomes completely dense and cloudy. This prevents light from passing through the retina and severely impairs vision. This stage makes it difficult to perform everyday activities.

Symptoms of cataracts include:

• significant vision loss
• difficulty reading and driving
• double vision in one eye
• halos around light

Hypermature cataracts

Hypermature cataracts are the most advanced stage. The lens may begin to shrink and harden, increasing the risk of complications like inflammation and elevated eye pressure. This may lead to various symptoms, including :

• a completely white appearance
• severe vision loss
• vision acuity reduced to counting fingers at a close distance
• increased eye pressure
• dislocation of the lens nucleus

How are cataracts treated by stage?

The treatment approach for different stages of cataracts varies depending on the stage and severity.

Early stage cataract treatment

In the early stages, treatment focuses on managing symptoms because the cataract is not yet advanced enough to require surgery.

An eye doctor may recommend a stronger eyeglasses prescription to help improve your vision or advise wearing anti-glare sunglasses to reduce glare and manage sensitivity to light. Using brighter lights at home and at work can also make it easier to see.

Immature cataract treatment

An eye doctor may recommend using corrective glasses to accommodate vision changes in immature cataracts, where the lens fibers are only partially clouded.

Since these cataracts are developing, they typically do not require immediate surgical intervention. However, regular follow-up is important to determine the right time for surgery depending on symptom progression and its effect on daily activities.

Mature cataract treatment

As the cataract matures and interferes with daily activities, cataract surgery becomes the main treatment option. This procedure involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial one.

Cataract surgery is safe, typically performed in the outpatient department, and usually takes approximately 1 hour. Your doctor may tell you to plan for several hours, including pre-procedure and recovery time.

Hypermature cataract treatment

Hypermature cataracts require immediate surgical intervention due to the increased risk of complications. After the operation, most people see better, and eye pressure — if it was elevated — improves.

However, a healthcare professional may perform additional procedures, such as secondary intraocular lens implantation, to avoid severe inflammatory reactions after surgery.

Frequently asked questions about stages of cataracts

Here are some frequently asked questions about the stages of cataracts.

How fast does a cataract progress?

The progression of cataracts can vary among people. Most age-related cataracts progress slowly over years, while others may progress more rapidly, such as those in people with diabetes.

Can cataracts be reversed?

There is currently no scientific evidence that cataracts can be reversed, but you may slow down their development and be treated in the early stages.

At what stage should cataracts be removed?

An eye doctor may recommend the removal of cataracts when vision impairment noticeably affects daily activities like reading, watching TV, and driving.

How long does it take to go blind from cataracts?

The rate of vision loss can vary depending on different factors. For instance, age-related cataracts can take years to lead to blindness, whereas other types, including traumatic cataracts, may cause blindness immediately if the injury completely damages the lens.

Takeaway

Cataracts progress through four stages. Early symptoms may not be noticeable, but regular eye exams are important for early detection. As cataracts progress, they cause significant vision changes, making daily activities difficult.

Surgery is the primary treatment, especially for mature and hypermature stages.