Cataracts are a common eye condition where the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurred vision. This cloudiness can develop slowly over time and is often associated with aging, but can also result from factors like diabetes, smoking, or prolonged exposure to sunlight. Symptoms of cataracts include difficulty seeing at night, sensitivity to light, and seeing halos around lights. Treatment typically involves surgery to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with an artificial one, which can significantly improve vision and quality of life for those affected.