Cataracts - What Residents of Tauranga Need to Know

Cataracts are a common age-related condition where the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, reducing vision much like frosted glass. At Matthews Eyecare Tauranga we see cataracts frequently in older adults, and early detection helps preserve quality of life and visual independence.

Many people consider poor vision an inevitable fact of aging, but cataract surgery is a simple, relatively painless procedure and is very successful in restoring vision.

What is a cataract?

The lens sits behind the pupil and iris and focuses light onto the retina. With cataracts the lens becomes progressively opaque, scattering light and blurring vision. Cataract development is typically gradual and affects both eyes, though one eye may be worse.

A simple analogy: when we’re young the lens is clear- like a raw egg white. As we age it clouds- like a cooked egg white, which explains why vision becomes misty over time.

Risk factors for cataracts While ageing is the primary cause, other factors increase risk:

• Prolonged UV exposure (sunlight)

• Diabetes and hypertension

• Obesity

• Smoking and heavy alcohol use

• Long-term use of certain medications (e.g., corticosteroids)

• Previous eye injury, inflammation or eye surgery

• Hormone replacement therapy

Types of cataracts

• Nuclear cataract: forms deep in the central zone (nucleus) of the lens and is commonly age-related.

• Cortical cataract: begins in the lens cortex as wedge-shaped spokes that extend toward the centre.

• Posterior subcapsular cataract: occurs at the back of the lens and is more common in people with diabetes or long-term steroid use.

Common symptoms

• Blurry or cloudy vision

• Colours appearing faded or washed out

• Increased sensitivity to glare from sunlight or headlights

• Difficulty seeing at night

• Frequent changes in spectacle prescription

Diagnosis and treatment at Matthews Eyecare Tauranga

Regular eye examinations are essential, vision and cataract changes can be subtle at first. We include cataract checks in routine eye exams, monitoring progression and advising on timing for intervention.

When cataracts begin to significantly affect daily life (reading, driving, or working), surgical removal is the definitive treatment. Cataract surgery replaces the cloudy natural lens with a clear intraocular lens. Our team can discuss suitability, referral pathways, lens options (including presbyopia-correcting lenses) and expected outcomes.

When to see us

Book an eye exam at Matthews Eyecare Tauranga if you notice:

• Persistent blurring or glare that affects activities

• Sudden changes in vision

• Increased difficulty driving at night

Cataracts are a common, treatable cause of vision loss, especially with timely assessment and care. If you’re in Tauranga and have concerns about cataracts or changes in your eyesight, contact Matthews Eyecare Tauranga to arrange a comprehensive eye examination and personalised advice.

Call to action Book an appointment with Matthews Eyecare Tauranga today - early detection preserves vision.