The gray, off-white color of the lens in this dilated pupil displays the appearance typical of cataract. This undilated pupil displays the gray-white appearance of a cataractous lens. In normal vision, objects are clear and in focus. Blurry vision, including the dulling of colors, is a classic finding in cataract.
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Cataracts  Information for adults

Picture of Cataracts: The gray, off-white color of the lens in this dilated pupil displays the appearance typical of cataract. Divider line
The gray, off-white color of the lens in this dilated pupil displays the appearance typical of cataract.
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Signs and Symptoms
Only when the cataract becomes dense enough can one see it with the naked eye. Since the lens is located behind the colored part of the eye (the iris), one has to look in the pupil to see if there is any change. Typically, the lens affected by the cataract will appear gray, gray/white, or yellow/tan and, rarely, the lens will be pearly white in appearance. Suspect a cataract when:

  • Vision is cloudy, blurry, or there are multiple images.
  • Glare is bothersome, such as from headlights or street lights.
  • Night vision seems reduced.
  • Changes in glasses prescriptions are needed frequently.
  • One has trouble judging distances – such as missing steps or having difficulty parking a car.
  • Color vision is altered, in that colors are faded or shades of color are difficult to discern.

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Last Modified: 22 Dec 2008
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