Did you know there are multiple types of cataracts? While each type can cause the hallmark symptoms of blurred or cloudy vision, they differ in how they develop, how quickly they progress, and how they may impact surgical treatment and recovery.
Understanding the differences can help you know what to expect and why early diagnosis matters.
Nuclear Sclerotic Cataracts
Nuclear sclerotic cataracts are the most common form of age-related cataracts. They develop slowly in the central (nuclear) portion of the lens and gradually harden and yellow over time.
Common symptoms include:
- Blurry or hazy vision
- Difficulty reading
- Faded or dull colors
- Glare when looking at lights
- Double vision in one eye
Because this type tends to progress slowly, many patients don’t seek treatment right away. However, as the lens becomes denser, surgery becomes more complex. For that reason, cataract surgery is typically recommended once vision begins to interfere with daily activities like driving or reading.
When detected early, surgery is typically smoother and recovery faster.
Cortical Cataracts
Cortical cataracts begin in the outer edges (cortex) of the lens and grow inward, often forming spoke-like patterns. They can develop at varying speeds, but many progress more quickly than nuclear sclerotic cataracts.
Symptoms may include:
- Glare or halos around lights
- Blurred or fluctuating vision
- Difficulty driving at night
Because cortical cataracts interfere with contrast sensitivity and peripheral vision, they can affect safety, especially at night. When symptoms worsen, surgery is often recommended. Precision is essential for a successful outcome, particularly with lens alignment and restoring clear vision, so selecting an experienced cataract surgeon is critical.
Posterior Subcapsular Cataracts (PSC)
Posterior subcapsular cataracts form at the back of the lens, just in front of the lens capsule. Despite being smaller in size, they sit directly along the central visual axis, so they can have an outsized effect on vision.
PSC symptoms may include:
- Cloudy or blurred vision
- Sensitivity to bright light
- Halos and glare, especially in sunlight or headlights
- Trouble reading in bright environments
- Double vision
PSC cataracts tend to progress faster than other types and often require earlier surgical intervention. While they’re typically associated with aging, PSCs may also result from trauma, corticosteroid use, radiation exposure, excessive alcohol intake or inflammation.
Because they sit close to the posterior capsule, extra care is required during surgery to avoid complications. Still, outcomes are often excellent, with rapid improvement in clarity after the procedure.
Why Cataract Type Matters
Knowing which type of cataract you have helps guide when to operate and how to approach surgery. Whereas nuclear cataracts can harden over time, making them more difficult to remove if delayed, cortical cataracts may affect safety sooner due to glare or peripheral vision loss. And posterior subcapsular cataracts often warrant earlier surgery due to their rapid progression and central location.
Your eye surgeon will consider these factors to plan the safest, most effective cataract surgery option based on your unique diagnosis.
If you're experiencing vision changes or have been told you have cataracts, our team at North Florida Cataract Specialists and Vision Care is here to help. We’ll guide you through diagnosis, explain your options, and provide expert care from consultation through recovery.
Contact North Florida Cataract Specialists and Vision Care today at 352-373-4300 to schedule an appointment and learn more about cataract surgery in Gainesville.