Cataracts Normal Abnormal The lense of the eye is normally clear. When it becomes clouded over by thickened tissue, usually in old age, it is called a cataract. Slowly blurring vision over months or years Old age -- causes most cases Intrauterine infections Genetic disease Corticosteroid medications Eye trauma Diabetes Uveitis (an eye disease) Cigarette smoking Heavy alcohol Consumption Ophthalmoscope (eye exam) Hand held illuminator Slitlamp Surgical cataract removal with lens replacement Chronic Glaucoma Macular Degeneration Uveitis