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How to Prevent Cataracts: Effective Strategies for Clear Vision 

Gina, Master of Clinical Pharmacy
Published

LAST UPDATED:

how to prevent cataracts

Cataracts are an eye condition in which one’s eye lens becomes cloudy and may lead to vision problems.

It is a common age-related eye condition that can affect one’s quality of life. 

However, individuals often wonder how to prevent Cataracts.

Let us explore all the preventive measures that can help reduce one’s risk of developing Cataracts.

How to prevent Cataracts naturally

Cataracts are a common problem in older people, as they affect over half of adults who are 80 or older.

The common causes of Cataracts include eye injury, previous surgery, lifestyle habits, and more. 

Individuals can try some preventive strategies to help lower the risk of Cataract.

The prevention strategies include protecting eyes from UV rays, eating a balanced diet, wearing eye protection, and more.

Let us explore the prevention strategies in detail.

Consuming a balanced diet

A proper balanced diet is important for overall well-being, including eye health. 

Research suggests that certain nutrients like vitamin C, zeaxanthin, Vitamin E, and more can help prevent Cataracts.

However, consuming food-based nutrients is more effective than nutritional supplements in preventing Cataracts.

Therefore, one should include citrus fruits, berries, nuts, and leafy greens in their diet to get the desired nutrients. 

Consult a nutritionist for a properly balanced diet plan.

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Protect the eyes from UV rays and injury

preventing UV raysSource: Satjawat_Boontanataweepol's_Images
Woman preventing UV rays

A study states that ultraviolet-A (UV-A) and ultraviolet-B (UV-B) can result in the development of Cataracts.

Therefore, one should avoid long sun exposure to help prevent Cataract formation.

Individuals should wear 100% UV protection sunglasses to help reduce UV exposure to the eyes. 

Also, wearing a scarf or wide-brimmed hat can provide extra protection from sun damage, especially during peak sunlight hours.

Eye injury is also a common cause of Cataracts. 

Therefore, one should wear protective eyewear to protect the eyes from injury during risky activities like sports.

Warning:
UV radiation is very harmful, as it can be a major risk factor for retinal damage in children.

Quit smoking

Smoking is one of the main risk factors for Cataracts and various other eye conditions. 

Individuals who smoke cigarettes have two to three times more chances of developing Cataracts.

Therefore, one should quit smoking to prevent Cataracts and other health issues. 

Get help from family and friends, or join a program to improve the chance of quitting smoking.

Also, consult an expert about programs and medications to help quit smoking.

Avoid alcohol

Drinking excessive alcohol can be a major risk factor for Cataracts. 

A study states that drinking alcohol daily can increase the age-related risk of Cataracts. 

Therefore, one should keep a check on their drinking and minimize alcohol consumption to help avoid Cataracts.

Regular Eye Check-ups

Most eye issues don’t have noticeable early symptoms and may go undetected till they reach the advanced stage.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology states the following plan for eye exams:

AgeFrequency of eye exam 
40 Get a complete eye exam 
40 to 54every 2 to 4 years
55 to 64every 1 to 3 years
65 and moreevery 1 to 2 years

Individuals should get regular eye exams to maintain eye health and detect eye issues early.

Suggestion
Diabetes patients should get yearly eye checkups, as Diabetes is one of the major risk factors for Cataracts.

Treatment for Cataracts

cataract eyeSource: pixel_shots
Cataract eye surgery

Surgical treatment is the primary treatment for Cataract symptoms like blurred vision, double vision, and more.

The surgery involves removing and replacing the clouded lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). 

Surgery is highly effective in restoring clear vision, with Phacoemulsification being the most common type of Cataract surgery.

Patients may experience improvement in vision shortly after surgery and can continue daily activities within a few days. 

However, the patient may need to wear glasses for activities like reading, even after surgery, to achieve optimal vision.

Consult an eye expert for proper Cataract treatment options.

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Key takeaways

Cataracts are a common age-related condition when one’s eye lens becomes cloudy.

However, many are curious about, “How to prevent Cataracts?”

The prevention strategies include protecting eyes from UV rays, eating a balanced diet, wearing eye protection, and more.

The above strategies can help lower the risk of Cataracts.

Additionally, one can also use treatment options like Cataract surgery to deal with the problem. 

Consult an expert before trying anything.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main causes of Cataracts?

The main cause of Cataracts is the natural aging process that clouds the eye’s lens. As time passes, proteins in the lens break down and cause lens opacity. Other factors contributing to Cataracts include genetics, prolonged exposure to UV rays, smoking, Diabetes, and certain medications.

Can Cataracts cause blindness?

Yes, untreated Cataracts can lead to blindness as the lens becomes more cloudy with time. Regular eye check-ups are important for early detection of eye problems.

What are the symptoms of Cataracts?

The Cataract symptoms include cloudy vision, increased sensitivity to light, difficulty seeing at night, frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions, and more. Consult an eye expert for a proper eye exam.

How to treat mild cases of Cataracts?

Individuals can manage mild cases of Cataracts with prescription glasses, improved lighting, and lifestyle adjustments. However, the doctors may suggest Cataract surgery if the condition worsens.

What vitamin helps prevent Cataracts?

Vitamin C helps prevent Cataracts, as it helps protect the eye’s lens from oxidative damage. Therefore, vitamin C reduces the risk of Cataracts. Include vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers in your diet.

Citations:
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