A cataract is not a growth, a skin, or a disease, nor is it usually not a sign of eye or systemic disease. Initially, the cataract changes the focusing power of the eye. Sometimes, a change of glasses can satisfactorily improve vision. However, clarity will gradually drop so that vision becomes increasingly difficult, despite the best possible glasses. A person with cataract sees things as if looking through a dirty window or a car windshield that needs to be defrosted.
Glare becomes a serious problem and color perception becomes muted.
Common activities such as reading, driving, computer work, hobbies, and athletics become less easy and, eventually, impossible due to diminished vision. There is no non-surgical treatment for cataracts. Anti-oxidant vitamins can delay cataract changes. Smoking accelerates cataract development and should be avoided. Again, some improvement with glasses is possible until the cataract becomes severe.