Cataract’s types are base on its location (nuclear, cortical, and sub-capsular) and cause (Age related, secondary, traumatic, congenital, and radiation).
Cataract types based on its location
Based on their location of formation of cataract in the lens, it has three cataract types they are:
- Nuclear cataract
- Cortical cataract
- Sub-capsular cataract
Nuclear Cataracts are the most common cataract type, usually develops during aging. It affects the center or nucleus of the lens, thus it has this name. Nuclear cataract interferes with the ability to see objects, in the distance.
Cortical Cataracts are most common among diabetics. It starts forming at the outer rim or cortex of the lens and proceeds gradually toward the lens center.
Sub-capsular Cataracts develops rapidly; it affects the back of the lens or the membrane that envelops the lens. Sub-capsular cataract interferes with vision by causing glare and blurriness. It is most common among patients who use steroids, diabetics, or extreme nearsightedness.
Age is the most common risk factor for cataracts; still, some cataract types may also develop due to diabetes, eye trauma, or certain prescription drugs or steroids.
Cataract types based on its cause
Cataracts can classify into different types based on their natural of causes; they are:
- Age-related cataracts
- Secondary cataracts
- Traumatic cataracts
- Congenital cataracts
- Radiation cataracts
Age-related Cataract caused during aging, the most common type of cataract. Signs can see as early as 40 to 50 years of age, but become significant only at late 60s or 70s.
Secondary Cataracts caused by another disease or other conditions. It may develop after undergoing eye surgery, patients with diabetes or patients who are taking steroids for an extended period may develop cataracts.
Traumatic Cataract caused because of direct injury, trauma to the eye or chemical exposure. Cataracts may develop immediately or years after this triggering cause.
Congenital Cataract presents from birth, this inherited cataract in some cases is not significant enough to affect vision. If it affects vision, it should remove in order to avoid vision problems, such as strabismus or amblyopia.
Radiation Cataract caused after exposure to certain radiations (such as an ultraviolet light and other form of radiations), it is a rare form of cataract.