What Is A Cataract?
A cataract is a clouding of the eye's lens that can result in vision loss. The different types of cataracts are nuclear, cortical and subcapsular. By the age of 80, more than half of all Americans either suffer from cataracts or have had cataract surgery, according to the National Eye Institute. However, cataracts may develop at any age depending on a variety of risk factors.
What Causes Cataracts?
The most common cause of a cataract is aging, not eye injuries. However, it is unknown what exactly causes cataracts. Fortunately, there is light at the end of the tunnel, as researchers gradually advance in identifying cataract causes and risk factors to provide patients with more information on prevention and risks. Learn more about other possible causes of cataracts, the latest cataract news, and cataract surgery.
Are You At Risk For A Cataract?
The risk of developing cataracts increases as you get older. However, many studies suggest that diabetes, alcohol use and steroids may put you in the risk category, too. Some researchers show evidence that extended exposure to ultraviolet rays may be another possible cause of cataracts. (If you would like to know how to select the right sunglasses, visit the Consumer Guide to Sunglasses.) Learn more about currently identified cataract risks.
How Can You Detect Cataracts?
Cataracts can sneak up on you, starting out small and causing very little alarm. Cataract symptoms may surprise you with a sudden need for a brighter lamp to read a book, a visual illusion of more glare from the headlights of oncoming cars at night or with double vision. If you think you may have cataracts, the only way to find out for sure is to have a thorough eye examination by an eye doctor in your area.
How Can You Fight Cataracts?
Although cataracts are inevitable the longer you live, there are ways to help your body fight the natural progression. By adding lutein and zeaxanthin to your diet through fruits and vegetables, you could help protect your eyes from damage in different ways, such as helping to prevent common eye diseases like macular degeneration and cataracts, and promote general eye care necessary for the health of your eyes.
Need More Cataract Info?
For more in-depth information about cataracts, please visit the Consumer Guide to Cataracts and Cataract Surgery.