Understanding Cataracts: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

The eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurred vision. This clouding is typically a result of aging, but can also be caused by factors such as diabetes, smoking, or prolonged exposure to sunlight.

What are the Symptoms of Cataracts?

The most common symptoms of cataracts include blurry vision, sensitivity to light, difficulty seeing at night, and seeing halos around lights. As cataracts progress, colors may appear faded and vision may become increasingly impaired.

What Causes Cataracts?

Age is the primary risk factor for developing cataracts, with the majority of cases occurring in individuals over the age of 60. Other risk factors include smoking, diabetes, obesity, and prolonged exposure to UV radiation.

How are Cataracts Treated?

The only effective treatment for cataracts is surgery. During cataract surgery, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens. This procedure is safe and highly successful, with over 95% of patients experiencing improved vision after surgery.

Preventing Cataracts

While cataracts are a natural part of aging, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. These include wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV radiation, quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, and managing conditions like diabetes that can contribute to cataract development.

By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for cataracts, you can take proactive steps to protect your vision and maintain healthy eyes for years to come.