What it is
Causes include inherited gene changes, infections during pregnancy and some genetic conditions, but often no cause is found.
Small cataracts may only need monitoring. Larger ones are removed with surgery, followed by glasses, contact lenses or a lens implant, and often patching to strengthen the weaker eye.
Common signs
- A white or grey reflection in the pupil, sometimes seen in photos
- Wobbling or flickering eye movements
- A squint
- A baby not following faces or objects
How it is usually diagnosed
- Newborn and infant eye checks
- Examination by a children's eye specialist
- Blood or genetic tests to look for a cause
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Newborn eye check results
- Ophthalmology letters and vision tests over time
- Operation notes
- Glasses and contact lens prescriptions
- Patching plans
Questions to ask your doctor
- Does the cataract need surgery, and when?
- How will we help the eye develop afterwards?
- Is it inherited, and should siblings be checked?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- After eye surgery: a red, painful, sticky eye or a child who is very unwell needs same-day help from the eye unit
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.