Patient information

Patient information from BMJ

PrintDownload PDF

Cataracts: questions to ask your doctor

Last published:Jul 10, 2020

If you have cataracts you can talk to your doctor to find out more.

Here are some questions you might want to ask.

  • Why did I get cataracts?

  • Do I have them in just one eye or in both eyes?

  • How do they affect my sight now and how will they do so in the future?

  • Should I watch for any symptoms?

  • Should I change anything about the way I live?

  • Is there anything I can do to stop my cataracts getting worse?

  • What kinds of tests do I need?

  • Can my cataracts be treated?

  • Do I need surgery to take them out?

  • What kind of operation can I have?

  • How much better will I be able to see after surgery?

  • How long will it take for me to get better after surgery?

  • What are the risks of having an operation?

  • What will happen to my eyesight if I don't have surgery?

The patient information from BMJ Best Practice is regularly updated. The most recent version of Best Practice can be found at bestpractice.bmj.com. This information is intended for use by health professionals. It is not a substitute for medical advice. It is strongly recommended that you independently verify any interpretation of this material and, if you have a medical problem, see your doctor.

Please see BMJ's full terms of use at: bmj.com/company/legal-information. BMJ does not make any representations, conditions, warranties or guarantees, whether express or implied, that this material is accurate, complete, up-to-date or fit for any particular purposes.

© BMJ Publishing Group 2025. All rights reserved.

What did you think about this patient information guide?

Complete the online survey or scan the QR code to help us to ensure our content is of the highest quality and relevant for patients. The survey is anonymous and will take around 5 minutes to complete.

BMJ Best Practice logo

Use of this content is subject to our disclaimer