Congenital cataracts
Symptoms of childhood cataracts can vary depending on how cloudy the lens is, where the cloudiness is in the lens, and whether one or both eyes are affected.
When your child is very young, it can be difficult to spot signs of cataracts. However, your baby's eyes will be routinely examined within 72 hours of birth and again when they're sixto eight weeks old as part of the Healthy Child Programme.
Sometimes, cataracts can develop in children after these screening tests. Signs that your child may have developed cataracts can include:
Your child may also find it difficult to see clearly in bright light or if there's any glare.
Visit your GP or tell your health visitor if you have any concerns about your child's eyesight at any stage.
Your GP will examine your child's eyes and can refer them to an eye specialist for further tests and treatment if necessary.
Read about diagnosing childhood cataracts.
Find out about childhood cataracts which occur when changes in the lens of the eye cause it to become less transparent, resulting in blurred or misty vision.
Symptoms of childhood cataracts can vary depending on how cloudy the lens is, where the cloudiness is in the lens and whether one or both eyes are affected.
Read about the possible causes of childhood cataracts including genes and genetic conditions and infections during pregnancy, such as rubella, chickenpox and toxoplasmosis.
Find out how childhood cataracts are diagnosed with the help of newborn screening, vision tests during early childhood and referral to an ophthalmologist (eye specialist).
Read about the treatment options for childhood cataracts. Cataract surgery will usually only be recommended if your child's vision is affected.
Read about the complications of cataract surgery, including posterior capsule opacification (PCO) where part of the lens capsule thickens, causing cloudy vision.