These stories are based on information gathered from health professionals and consumers. They may be helpful as you make important health decisions.

Betty, age 72: My left eye is so clouded that I feel like I'm looking through tinted plastic wrap. I'm a little nervous about the surgery, but I need to have good eyesight to read, play cards, and do other things like that. I will talk to my doctor and get more information about what to expect, then maybe I won't be so nervous.

Bob, age 46: I didn't even know that I had a cataract until my eye doctor told me about it during my last eye exam. I suppose my eyesight has changed a little bit, but it has happened so slowly that I haven't noticed it much. So long as I am still able to pass my driver's test and see well enough to do what I need to do, I don't plan to have surgery.

Harold, age 67: I have known about my cataract for a long time. Only recently has it started to bother me. It is very hard for me to drive at night, and I attend a lot of meetings in the evenings. Most people I know have had a good experience with cataract surgery, and my doctor specializes in it. So I feel confident that the surgery is right for me and will help me see better at night.

Marie, age 55: I am very nervous about any surgery on my eyes. I know that cataract surgery is very safe, but it is still surgery on my eye, and the thought of blindness scares me. So far I am able to manage fine, and my eyesight is only affected a little bit. I am going to put off having surgery for as long as I can.