What Causes Cataracts?

Cataracts are a type of physical condition in the eyes that causes cloudy vision. Left untreated, cataracts can lead to complete blindness. Cataracts form when the cells that form tissue in the lens membrane of the eye overproduces tissue. Cataracts can be removed by a professional eye doctor. If you worry about developing cataracts, here are some important facts to know.

Signs of Cataracts

Cataracts don’t go away on their own; they only grow thicker and larger. It’s important to have your cataracts removed as soon as possible. To do that, you should know the common signs of cataracts. These include:

• cloudy vision
• blurred vision
• increased difficulty seeing at night
• spotty blurred vision
• increased glare from oncoming headlamps at night

If you notice one or more of these common signs, consult with your eye doctor.

What Causes Cataracts?

Many people develop cataracts as they get older, although it is not necessarily something that everyone gets. There are elderly people who have never gotten cataracts. Cataracts is not a disease, but cataracts can be a symptom of a disease. Cataracts are formed because the eye lens’ ability to restore itself becomes compromised. This damage can occur because of many things, including eye trauma, radiation, genetics, disease, old age or malnutrition. Of all the possible factors to cause damage, old age and genetic diseases are the only non-preventable factors.

Trauma

Trauma, such as blunt force to the eyes, can cause the inner fibers of the eye lens to swell and grow and impair the eye’s ability to recover. This sometimes leads to cataract growth. To prevent eye trauma, wear protective eyewear when playing impact sports

Radiation

Photo radiation from the sun and blue light from electronic devices are the most common cause of cataracts. Help reduce radiation exposure by wearing sunglasses outdoors and limiting your use of electronic devices.

Disease

Disease and genetics can set in motion a chain of reactions that leads to cataract growth. Many of these diseases have treatments available to reduce the chance of cataract growth.
Cataracts can be successfully removed, even in patients who are elderly. If you suspect you may be developing cataracts, talk to your eye doctor about treatment options.