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One of the most common eye diseases in adults over 60 and a leading cause of blindness among U.S. residents, cataracts cloud the eye lens, resulting in blurry vision. They can also manifest because of medical conditions, such as diabetes, or occur following trauma to the eye. Whether you think you have cataracts or simply want to learn more about the disease to take better care of your eyes, read on.

What Causes Cataracts & How Are They Treated?

Causes, Symptoms, & Risk Factors

Cataracts form when proteins clump together and accumulate on the eye lens, or the portion of the eyes responsible for reflecting light onto the retinas and adjusting focus so you can see far away and up close. Eye lenses mainly consist of water and protein. As proteins build up, the lens cannot let light pass through as efficiently. Over time, the cloudiness worsens to compromise vision.

cataractsIn addition to blurry vision, cataract symptoms can include double vision in the affected eye, nearsightedness, increased sensitivity to glares, problems wearing glasses and contacts, double vision, and changes in color perception. Besides age, injuries, and diabetes, risk factors for cataracts include obesity, tobacco use, hypertension, severe exposure to ultraviolet radiation, use of corticosteroid and statin medications, and hormone replacement therapy. Serious alcohol consumption also increases your risk.

Preventative Measures & Treatment Options

Diets rich in eye-healthy nutrients, such as vitamin E, lutein, and zeaxanthin, help decrease your risk for cataracts. Almonds, spinach, avocados, sunflower seeds, whole grains, and green, leafy vegetables all provide excellent sources of vitamin E; leafy greens contain high amounts of lutein and zeaxanthin as well. Consumption of omega-3 fatty acids is also believed to lower your risk. If you smoke and drink alcohol frequently, take steps to limit or quit these unhealthy habits.

Wear high-quality sunglasses to protect your eyes and surrounding skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. And since cataracts are hard to detect, seeing your eye doctor as often as recommended helps identify symptoms early to keep your vision healthy. Cataract surgery provides the most effective treatment for the disease, especially if it is caught early. New glasses and other visual aids can help in the weeks leading up to surgery.

 

Create an eye exam schedule with Eric G. Stocker, OD, the Amherst, OH-based optometrist who has served Lorain County for nearly 30 years to reduce your risk of cataracts. Among the many services Dr. Stocker offers is optomap® retinal imaging that allows him to see inside the eye to better detect conditions and diseases. Call (440) 988-4419 today to make an appointment or visit the website for more about exams and treatments.

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