Complication and Prognosis of Cataract - Frank

Some cataracts stop progressing after a certain point. Cataracts are never reversible, however, even after eliminating factors (such as drugs or illnesses), which might have promoted their development. If extensive and progressive cataracts are left untreated they can cause blindness. In fact, cataracts are the leading cause of blindness among adults age 55 and older.

However, many cases of cataracts never require treatment other than a change in one's eyeglass prescription. If surgery is required, the success rate is very high. More than 90 percent of patients experience improved vision.

A number of studies have shown that cataracts are associated with shortened lifespan. Some studies have specifically suggested poorer survival in patients with nuclear or mixed cataracts but not in those with cataracts in the cortex or capsule. In any case, nuclear cataracts are highly associated with smoking and diabetes, although some studies have found lower survival rates in patients with nuclear cataract regardless of these health risks.

Also, if vision impairment does result, it may also affect many daily functions such as driving, working, reading and general independence.

http://health.nytimes.com/health/guides/disease/cataract/prognosis.html
http://www.faqs.org/health/Sick-V1/Cataracts.html
http://adam.about.com/reports/000026_3.htm