What ocular condition is characterized by a clouding of the lens?

The condition characterized by a clouding of the lens is cataracts. Cataracts develop when proteins in the lens of the eye clump together, leading to opacity that inhibits clear vision. This clouding can occur in one or both eyes as one ages or due to various factors such as diabetes, prolonged exposure to sunlight, or excessive use of corticosteroids.

Cataracts can significantly impact vision by causing blurriness, impaired color perception, increased sensitivity to glare, and difficulty seeing at night. The progression of cataracts is typically gradual, and while they are common in older adults, some individuals may develop them earlier due to genetic, environmental, or health conditions.

In contrast, astigmatism refers to a refractive error caused by an irregular shape of the cornea or lens, leading to blurred vision. Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often associated with increased intraocular pressure, leading to vision loss over time. Macular degeneration is a progressive condition affecting the macula, the central part of the retina, resulting in loss of central vision. Each of these conditions has distinct causes and effects, differentiating them from cataracts specifically.