Clouding of the eye's lens is known as what?

• A. Glaucoma
• B. Astigmatism
• C. Retinopathy
• D. Cataracts

Answer: (D)

Clouding of the eye's lens is called cataracts. The lens normally stays clear to let light focus on the retina, but when it becomes partly opaque, light passes through less effectively, causing blurred or hazy vision, more glare from lights, and colors seeming dull. Cataracts most often develop with aging, though factors like smoking, diabetes, sun exposure, and certain meds can contribute. People might notice they need brighter light to read or that night driving is harder. The common treatment is cataract surgery, where the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial one, usually restoring sharp vision. Glaucoma involves optic nerve damage from high eye pressure and does not cause lens clouding. Astigmatism is a refractive error from an irregular corneal or lens shape, leading to blurred or distorted vision. Retinopathy affects the retina itself, which can cause vision changes but not clouded lenses. Regular eye exams help detect cataracts early and monitor vision changes.