Cataract
How is it diagnosed?
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| The red reflex of an eye with cortical cataract. |
Cataracts are relatively easy to diagnose.
How is the diagnosis made?
Cataracts are detected by looking for changes in the transparency of the lens of the eye. The easiest way to see a cataract is to observe the 'red reflex' of the eye. Cataracts are seen as dark zones in the red reflex.
Who can diagnose cataract?
Most cataracts are first diagnosed by optometrists and general practitioners. Patients are then referred to an ophthalmologist, who will confirm the diagnosis and discuss the benefits of cataract surgery.