Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness for those 55 and older worldwide, according to the World Health Organization’s analysis of the most recent census. With so many people experiencing the effects of this eye condition, it is even more important that you are well informed about what cataracts do and what you can do to prevent them.
Cataracts may seem like a scary, difficult-to-understand eye problem, but never fear. Here are seven facts to help you start understanding cataracts and their combatants.
1. What Happens When You Get a Cataract?
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s lens, which is normally clear. A healthy lens allows light to pass through to the back of the eye, so that the patient can see well-defined images. A cataract scatters the light as it passes through the lens, preventing a sharply defined image from reaching the retina. As a result, your vision becomes blurred, like looking through a fogged-up window.
Some cataracts are congenital, but most are caused by aging. Because cataracts impede your vision, they often prevent patients from being able to do things like read and drive as easily.
2. How to Know If You Have a Cataract?
Cataracts develop over time, so some people do not even realize they have a problem, especially if they are already wearing glasses. These changes in your vision may be signs of cataract:
Blurred or double vision, ghost images, or a “film” over the eyes
Worsening night vision
Difficulty seeing while reading or performing other close-up work under standard lighting conditions
Sensitivity to light and glare
Frequent changes in vision prescriptions
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is best to visit an eye doctor for an official diagnosis. Even if you do not think you have any vision problems, annual eye exams are still a good idea. This is especially true since cataracts and their symptoms can sneak up on you.
3. Uncontrollable Risk Factors for Developing Cataracts
Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness, making their prevention even more important. Unfortunately, there are several factors that we cannot control that may increase the risk of developing cataracts, including age, family history, and ethnicity.
4. Controllable Risk Factors for Developing Cataracts
There are many things you can do to reduce your risk of developing cataracts. Smoking can increase your risk, so quitting that habit is an important first step. Too much sunlight can also cause cataracts, so reducing your exposure to sunlight by wearing UVA/UVB protective sunglasses is a good idea. According to a recent study, cataracts are very prevalent in type-2 diabetic patients, so pursuing a healthy lifestyle to reduce your risk of developing diabetes will also reduce your risk of developing cataracts.
5. The Frequency of Cataract Surgery
Cataract extractions are one the most common surgical procedure. Luckily, cataract surgery is usually a fairly painless procedure and is easy to recover from. However, it is better to avoid needing surgery altogether by practicing the following steps.
6. The Importance of Diet in Cataract Prevention
A recent study published in the journal Nutrients touted the benefits of a healthy diet for preventing cataract development. They found that increasing your carotenoid intake is one of the best ways to avoid getting cataracts later in life. Carotenoids are abundant in dark green and leafy vegetables like kale and broccoli. They are also found in orange and red fruits and vegetables, such as tomatoes, peaches, and, of course, carrots.
7. Adding Supplements Can Help Fight Cataracts
Most of us do not eat enough fruits and vegetables to get the nutrients we need to fight cataracts. A great way to add more of these essential vitamins is to add eye vitamin supplements to your health and wellness regimen.
Knowing the Facts to Defeat Cataracts
With cataracts becoming such a prevalent problem it is more important than ever that you stay informed about what cataracts do and how you can prevent them. However, knowing the facts can slow the progression of cataracts and maybe prevent needing cataract surgery at all. Taking small steps like improving your diet and adding vision supplements can go a long way in preserving your vision for life – and saving you some money in the meantime.
This post originally appeared on Rebuild Your Vision.