Cataract Detection and Referrals in Hamilton, ON
A cataract is a gradual clouding of the eye's natural lens. It is the leading cause of vision loss in adults over 40 and the most common cause of reversible blindness worldwide. With safe, effective surgery, cataracts are highly treatable — and outcomes are excellent when detected and managed at the right time.
At You & Eye Optometry on Fennell Ave E, Hamilton Mountain, we screen for cataracts during every comprehensive eye exam and provide timely referrals to trusted ophthalmologists in Hamilton when surgery is appropriate.
Types of Cataracts
Nuclear Cataracts
Develop at the centre of the lens. The most common type — causes progressive blurring and a yellow-brown tint.
Cortical Cataracts
Form in the outer layers as spoke-like opacities. Often causes significant glare and light scatter.
Posterior Subcapsular
Forms at the back of the lens. Progresses faster and strongly affects near vision and glare.
Symptoms of Cataracts
- Gradually blurring or hazy vision
- Increased sensitivity to glare from headlights or sunlight
- Halos around lights at night
- Faded or yellowed colours
- Frequent changes to glasses prescription
- Difficulty reading in low light
When Is Cataract Surgery Needed?
We recommend a surgical referral when the cataract significantly impacts daily activities, can no longer be compensated with an updated prescription, or is preventing adequate retinal monitoring for disease management.
Cataract Surgery Referrals in Hamilton
When surgery is warranted, we refer to trusted ophthalmologists including specialists at the Hamilton Regional Eye Institute at St. Joseph's Healthcare and Hamilton Eye Physicians & Surgeons. We provide pre-operative measurements and coordinate all post-operative optometric care locally. OHIP covers standard cataract surgery with a monofocal intraocular lens in Ontario.