The natural lens inside the eye focuses light on the back of the eye, which, through an intricate process, converts to a visual image. With age, this lens will often grow thick and yellow, distorting vision, though some conditions cause this process to occur prematurely. Cataract surgery corrects the condition, and research does not indicate any way to reverse cataract growth. However, knowing some of the causes for premature growth may help a person discuss cataracts with her doctor.
Congenital Cataracts
Some children have cataracts at birth, a condition called congenital cataracts. In many cases, this often results from other conditions, such as Down syndrome or other genetic disorders, says MedlinePlus. Parents may notice a white or cloudy appearance to the front of the eye. If the child does not follow movement with his eyes, this may also indicate a congenital cataract.
If the cataract does not impair vision or cause a risk to structures in the eye, a pediatric eye surgeon will not likely recommend surgical removal. However, if the child has low vision but a healthy eye other than the cataract, the surgeon may recommend removing the cataract.
Injury
In adults, cataracts typically take years to grow. However, if a person has an eye injury, he will have a much greater risk for cataract growth, says MayoClinic.com. Injuries may include a blow to the eye or a puncture wound. The cataract may take years to grow, but it will often appear prematurely---a few years, or sooner, after an injury. Once the cataract disrupts vision, an eye doctor will recommend surgical removal, as long as surgery poses no risk to the health of the eye.
Surgery
Some types of eye surgery, such as repair of a retinal detachment, may result in cataract growth, says The University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center. The eye reacts to surgery and injury in much the same way, with premature cataract growth appearing within a few years or less of a surgery. As with any cause of cataract growth, the doctor will ensure that the eye is otherwise healthy before recommending removing the cataract.
