Cataracts

What is a cataract?

‍A cataract is a clouding in the lens of your eye. Most cataracts are age related, with gradual changes beginning around age 40, but some risk factors, as listed below, will hasten the development and growth of cataracts. Early on, there are usually no symptoms, but as the cataract grows, symptoms (listed below) begin to emerge. The image included with this article shows an example as to how cataracts may distort vision.

Symptoms of cataracts:

Causes/risk factors for cataracts:

Treatment of cataracts: Currently the only treatment option for cataracts is surgery. However, there are things that you may do to decrease your chances of getting, delay the onset of, or monitor for changes in cataracts including:  

The NEI has a brochure about cataracts which may be accessed at Cataract: What You Should Know

PCHC’s training list may be found at PCHC Training List and a Health Promotion Activity Plan (HPAP) on cataracts maybe accessed at Cataract HPAP

• Vision is cloudy, blurryor hazy and color appears faded or yellowed
• Increasing difficultywith night vision
• Sensitivity to naturalor artificial light sources, and you may see a halo around lights
• You may see double, often in one eye (this may go away as the cataract gets bigger)
• You have to change the prescription for your glasses often asyour vision deteriorates

• Aging changes may begin around age 40 and gradually increase
• Having parents, brothers, sisters, or other family members whohave cataracts
• Having certain medical problems (e.g. diabetes, obesity and hypertension (HTN)
• Smoking and/or excessive alcohol use
• Previous eye injury, eye surgery, or radiation treatments on your upper body
• Excessive sun exposure, especially without UV protectivesunglasses
• Use of certain medications (e.g. corticosteroids, beta blockers, phenytoin)

• Have regular eye exams                                                                                                             
• If you smoke, stop; if you drink, reduce or discontinue alcohol use
• Manage your health problems (e.g. diabetes, HTN)
• Wear sunglasses that block ultraviolet B (UVB) rays when you're outdoors
• Choose a diet rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables