Are You at Risk of Developing Cataracts?

Cataracts are a common eye condition affecting millions worldwide. A cataract is a cloud that develops in the eye lens and affects vision. It interferes with the role of your eye lens to focus light on your retina for clear vision. Read more to confirm if you are at risk of developing cataracts.

Age

One of the biggest risk factors for developing cataracts is age. The condition often affects people over 60—after years of clouding that develops gradually. The National Eye Institute indicates that over 50 percent of Americans will develop cataracts by age 80.

Cataract symptoms are often subtle during the early development stages of the condition. You may experience hazy or blurred vision, which can lead to vision loss if untreated. Thus, it is crucial to go for regular eye examinations to help your eye specialist detect cataracts early to prevent further vision loss.

Smoking

Smoking is a dangerous habit that increases the risk for various health conditions, including the development of cataracts. Cigarette smoke contains chemicals that damage the proteins in your eye lens, resulting in cloudiness and vision loss.

Quitting smoking is ideal for protecting your eye health and general wellness. You can seek help from a healthcare provider if you struggle to quit the habit. They can help you stop smoking gradually.

Family History

Having close family members with cataracts increases your risk of developing the eye condition. The eye condition runs in families, and certain cataracts develop due to genetic factors. Individuals with a family history of cataracts must understand they have a high chance of developing the condition. They must maintain regular eye examinations to help protect their vision.

Diabetes

High blood glucose levels can lead to cataract formation by causing changes in your eye lens. Thus, diabetes increases your risk of developing cataracts. It is so because diabetes damages blood vessels in the retina.

Prolonged Sun Exposure

Specialists emphasize the importance of protecting your eyes from the sun's rays outdoors. Prolonged exposure to harmful UV rays can damage proteins in your eye lens and cause the formation of cataracts. You can reduce this risk by wearing UV protection sunglasses outdoors. You can also wear a hat. It is also vital to avoid tanning beds that emit harmful UV rays.

Obesity

Obesity heightens your chances of developing various health conditions, including cataracts. Specialists are yet to determine the precise link between the development of cataracts and obesity. They believe that metabolic changes in the body play a significant role. 

Obesity causes health conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes. These health problems increase the risk of cataracts. Maintain a healthy lifestyle and weight to reduce your risk of developing cataracts.

Previous Eye Surgery or Injury

You have a high risk of developing a cataract if you have had eye surgery or eye injuries before. Cataract formation can begin when trauma causes changes in your eye lens. Surgical procedures on the eye, like cataract surgery, can also increase the risk for cataract development later in life.

For more about cataracts, visit Coers Family Eyecare, PC, at our office in Columbus, Indiana. Call (812) 408-8400 to book an appointment today.