Cataracts usually develop simply due to natural aging, most common in people aged 60 or older. More than half of Americans aged 80 or older have cataracts or have had cataract removal surgery. Cataracts are a slow, progressive development over many years eventually causing blurry vision. In fact, often people are unaware that they have cataracts until the cataract begins to block light from entering the eye. When this happens, symptoms will present as cloudy vision, nearsightedness, changes in how color is seen, difficulty driving at night, glare or halo effects around lights, double vision, and ineffectiveness with eyeglasses or contact lens prescriptions.
Cataracts are the clouding of the lens of the eye that should be clear. Around the age of 40, the proteins in the lens of the eye begin to break down and clump together. This buildup clouds the lens creating what is known as a cataract. There really are no preventative measures for cataract development or ways to slow the progression of cataracts. Once cataracts start, it is inevitable that they will cloud vision at some point. However, with most cataracts, it will be years before early signs and symptoms take effect and once vision is blurred, cataract removal surgery is a common and safe procedure to help one to see clearly again.
Risk factors for cataracts include smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, diabetes, hypertension, ultraviolet light exposure, steroid medication usage, eye injury, previous eye surgery and nutritional deficiency. It is possible that a change in these lifestyle changes could lower the risk of cataracts. Research shows that including Vitamin C, vitamin E and maintaining a healthy blood sugar level aid in the health of the eyes and minimizing the risk of swelling in the lens of the eye that can lead to the start of cataract development.
Regular comprehensive eye exams are essential in detecting any changes in your vision and overall health of your eyes. At your exam, Pendleton Eye can discuss with you any questions you may have about cataract development and the process for improving your vision if you already have cataracts. Schedule your appointment by calling 760-758-2008 or visit online at WEBSITE.
