A cataract is, broadly speaking, a clouding of the eye's natural lens that tends to develop gradually with age, though it can also occur for other reasons. It's one of the most common reasons people visit an eye specialist later in life.
What it can feel like
People often describe it as looking through a slightly foggy window — colors may seem less vivid, night driving can feel harder, and reading can require progressively brighter light. Because the change is usually gradual, it's easy to adjust without noticing how much vision has shifted.
How it's generally assessed
A comprehensive eye exam is typically how a cataract is identified and how its progression is tracked over time, alongside a check for any other conditions that might be contributing to vision changes.
How it's typically treated
In earlier stages, an updated glasses prescription may be enough. Once a cataract starts affecting day-to-day life, surgical removal and replacement with an artificial lens is generally considered a routine, well-established procedure — but the right timing and approach is something to discuss directly with a specialist, since it depends on your individual eyes and lifestyle.
This article is general information, not medical advice specific to you — a consultation is the right next step if you recognize any of this.