The most common reason for cataracts is growing older, when natural changes within the lens occur. Most people over the age of 65 have some changes in their lens and the majority of us will develop a cataract in time. Other common causes of cataracts include: diabetes, medications such as steroid eye drops, and previous eye surgery. There is research into other factors which may affect cataract development such as: smoking, lifelong exposure to sunlight, poor diet lacking antioxidant vitamins. In general, the reason for the cataract will not affect the way it is removed.
If you suspect that you have a cataract you will need a professional eye examination by your optician or ophthalmologist. If your vision can be corrected to an acceptable level with glasses or contact lenses, surgery may be avoided at this time. If your vision loss cannot be corrected by the above measures and if this interferes with your daily life (driving, watching television, hobbies) then your cataract will need to be removed surgically.