7 Frequently Asked Questions About Eye Cataracts
Cataracts occur when cloudy patches form in the lens of the eye. The eye’s lens is composed of water and protein. As you grow old, the proteins in the lens start to cluster together. The bigger the cluster becomes, the more they compromise your eyesight.
Cataracts develop in both eyes. It causes unfocused or blurry vision. This condition is common in older people and impacts your ability to do day-to-day activities like reading or driving.
Let’s look at seven frequently asked questions:
- What is The Main Cause of Cataracts?
Most cases of cataracts occur due to aging. As you age, the lens becomes less clear and thicker. The function of the lens is to focus light on the retina.
The eye’s lens has proteins, and when they begin to break down and clump together, that can affect how the light gets to the retina resulting in cloudy eyesight.
A Cataract can also develop due to genetics, smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, and eye trauma.
- What Age do Cataracts Usually Start?
As we get old, our eyesight begins to change. Cataracts start to develop in individuals aged 40 years and older, but it doesn’t impair vision until after 60. Young people can get cataracts as well. That is usually a result of genetic mutation that impacts the proteins through trauma or metabolic disorders.
- First Signs of Having Cataracts?
Early signs common with cataracts include:
- Cloudy vision. The fuzzy spots that appear in the field of vision start small and worsen with time.
- Trouble seeing at night. Cataracts cause one’s vision to become dim or darker and can result in slight yellow or brown tinges.
- The appearance of glare and halos
- Increased light sensitivity
- How Can You Prevent Cataracts from Getting Worse?
Cataracts are irreversible, but they are certain things you can do to prevent them from getting worse. They include:
- Protect the eyes from ultraviolet (UV) rays
Sun exposure may hasten the progression of cataracts. So, wear a brimmed hat or sunglasses when going outside. In addition, you can protect your eyes indoors by wearing glasses with a UV-blocking coating.
Our Monterey optometrist can help you choose the type of protective glass to wear.
- Regular eye examinations
Visiting an eye doctor helps to track the progression of the cataract and to be aware of the measures that can help manage or prevent the condition.
- Eat a healthy diet
Add a lot of fruits and vegetables to your diet to get the necessary vitamins for optimal eye health.
- Will Cataract Surgery Correct my Vision?
Many people ask if cataract surgery can correct their vision, and the answer is yes. Cataract surgery entails removing the eye’s lens and replacing it with an artificial lens.
There are eye conditions that determine how much your cataract surgery will improve your vision. They include the maturity level of the cataract, the type of intraocular lens you select if you have other eye conditions, and how fast the eyes heal.
Schedule a cataract surgery consultation in Monterey today.
- Can I Get Rid of Cataracts Naturally?
There are no ways to rid of cataracts naturally, but you can slow down the progression by making some healthy choices. Unfortunately, the only way to remove a cataract is by surgery.
Natural ways cannot cure cataracts, but they can help manage the symptoms and reduce the risks.
If you have cataracts and require surgery, schedule a consultation for cataract surgery near Monterey, CA.
- What Vitamins Are Good for Cataracts?
Vitamins can help protect or slow the development of cataracts.
Here are some vitamins that are good for cataracts:
- Vitamin A
It is vital for good vision and supports the cornea’s function. Vitamin A also enables you to see in low-light conditions. To acquire this vitamin, eat foods like carrots, pumpkin, squash, and sweet potato.
- Vitamin C
It helps protect the eyes from UV light and oxidative damage.
Foods rich in vitamin C include broccoli, oranges, blackberries, and brussels sprouts.
Conclusion
A cataract is usually caused by natural aging, and it affects individuals aged 40 and above. Symptoms of cataracts include blurry vision, seeing colors as faded, and sensitivity to light. If you experience any of those symptoms, you should get checked at Eye MD Monterey – Cass St.