The most common factor that contributes to the development of a cataract is age although it can present, less frequently so in younger age groups.
Another common risk factor is UV exposure, hence cataracts are most prevalent in hotter, equatorial countries.
Certain drugs and systemic conditions such as diabetes can also trigger a cataract in addition to direct injury to the ocular area.
Common symptoms of a developing cataract include glare issues and visual difficulties, in particular when reading print. Once the cataract is mature enough, and the vision is affected enough (as determined by your optometrist) you can be referred for a surgical procedure to have the aged lens removed and replaced with a new one. The surgery itself is a day procedure and lasts approximately 20 minutes.
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