A cataract is a clouding of the eye that can get progressively worse with age. As you get older, this can cause poor eyesight or blurred vision that interferes with your daily activities.
The main cause of cataracts is the breakdown of proteins in your eye that clump together and obstruct your vision. The obstruction forms in the lenses of the eyes, causing blurred or foggy eyesight. Cataracts are usually age-related, but some cases involve family history, eye injury, or past eye surgery.
What Are The Symptoms of Cataracts?
Early symptoms include blurred vision. However, a cataract is more than just blurry vision. Difficulty seeing at night, sensitivity to light, seeing yellow to faded colors, and double vision are some of the common symptoms found in cataract patients. If not treated, the disease progresses and may lead to vision loss.
How Can It Be Prevented?
- Wear Eye Protection. Sunlight may be a good source of Vitamin D but can be harmful to the eyes. UV light damages the protein in your eyes. Wear sunglasses that help block UVA/UVB.
- Get Regular Eye Check-ups. Consult an ophthalmologist and get your eyes checked every year. Early diagnosis and treatment of cataract lowers your chances of worsening symptoms and vision loss.
- Maintain Blood Sugar Levels. A high glucose level in the body puts you at risk of developing a cataract. If the sugar in the body is not regulated, the excess sugar is turned into a substance called sorbitol, which stays in the eyes resulting in the formation of a cataract.
- Quit Smoking. Toxins from tobacco endanger your health in general, including your eye health. Smoking highly contributes to the risk of cataract formation. The longer you smoke, the higher your risk of getting the disease. Consult an expert to help you stop as soon as possible.
- Eat Healthy Foods. Antioxidants and vitamins are beneficial for eye health and the prevention of cataracts. Lutein, a type of vitamin related to Vitamin A and beta-carotene, naturally prevents eye diseases. This vitamin is found in broccoli, eggs, kale, spinach, kiwi fruit and many other foods. A daily dose of citrus fruits and green leafy vegetables is a great way to keep your eyes healthy.
Like many other diseases, cataracts can be prevented through proper care and early detection. Do not delay your preventive healthcare any longer. Schedule an appointment with Phoenix Medical Center by calling (813) 462-2595.
