The opacification of the normal transparent lens is called cataract. The Latin word ‘cataracta’ means ‘waterfall’. Imagine trying to peer through a sheet of falling water or through a frosted or fogged-up window. Development of Cataract varies from person to person but as a general rule, most cataracts develop slowly over a period of time. A cataract can take months or even years to reach a point where it adversely affects vision.
Causes of cataract
Age-related cataract
The cataract occurs as a result of the natural aging process of lens fibres which become opaque over a period of time.
Traumatic cataract
Due to a direct penetrating injury.
Concussion- Electric shock and lightning.
Ionizing radiation done as treatment for ocular tumors.
Surgical trauma
Metabolic cataract: Defect in body metabolism
Diabetes
Galactosaemia -inborn error of metabolism
Calcium disorders

The opacification of the normal transparent lens is called cataract. The Latin word ‘cataracta’ means ‘waterfall’. Imagine trying to peer through a sheet of falling water or through a frosted or fogged-up window. Development of Cataract varies from person to person but as a general rule, most cataracts develop slowly over a period of time. A cataract can take months or even years to reach a point where it adversely affects vision.
Causes of cataract
Age-related cataract
The cataract occurs as a result of the natural aging process of lens fibres which become opaque over a period of time.
Traumatic cataract
Due to a direct penetrating injury.
Concussion- Electric shock and lightning.
Ionizing radiation done as treatment for ocular tumors.
Surgical trauma
Metabolic cataract: Defect in body metabolism
Diabetes
Galactosaemia -inborn error of metabolism
Calcium disorders