Cataracts are the formation of a nebula in the lens of the eye, which is behind the iris and pupil. Cataracts usually occur in both eyes, but sometimes they only affect one. Most cataracts occur as a result of aging, usually sometime after age 40.
Cataracts are the most common cause of vision loss worldwide, but they can be treated.
Types of cataracts:
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Subcapsular cataract: It occurs at the back of the lens. People with diabetes or taking high-dose steroid medications are at higher risk of developing this type of cataract.
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Nuclear cataract: It sits in the central area (nucleus) of the lens. This type of cataract is associated to a greater extent with aging.
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Cortical cataract: It is characterized by white, wedge-shaped opacities that begin at the periphery of the lens and extend radially to the center. This type of cataract occurs in the cortex of the lens, that is, the part that surrounds the central nucleus.
Symptoms of cataracts:
- Cloudy, blurry, or dim vision
- Increased difficulty with vision at night
- Sensitivity to light and glare
- Need for brighter light for reading and other activities
- See halos around lights
- Frequent changes to prescription glasses or contact lenses
- Discoloration or yellowing of colors
- Double vision in one eye
Causes of cataracts:
The lenses inside the eye work in a very similar way to those of a camera, focusing light on the retina to obtain clear vision. They also adjust the focus of the eye, allowing us to see both distant and near objects clearly.
The lens is made up mostly of water and proteins. The proteins are arranged very precisely and keep the lens free of irregularities, allowing light to pass through.
With age, some of the proteins may begin to clump together so that a small area of the lens becomes cloudy. This is known as a cataract, and over time, it can grow and cloud more areas of the lens, making vision increasingly difficult.
It is not known with certainty why the lens of the eye changes with age, forming cataracts. However, researchers around the world have managed to identify factors that possibly cause cataracts or that have some association with their development.
Risk factor's:
- Aging
- Diabetes
- Excessive exposure to sunlight
- Smoke
- Obesity
- High blood pressure
- Previous eye injury or inflammation
- Previous eye surgery
- Long-term use of corticosteroid medications
- Drinking alcohol excessively
Cataract prevention:
Although the topic of preventing cataracts is very controversial, numerous studies suggest that certain nutrients or nutritional supplements can reduce the risk of developing cataracts.
A large-scale 10-year study of female health professionals found that diets high in vitamin E, carotenoids, lutein, and zeaxanthin from both foods and supplements are associated with a significant reduction in risk of developing cataracts.
Sunflower seeds, almonds and spinach are a good source of vitamin E. Spinach, cabbage and leafy vegetables are recommended for the consumption of lutein and zeaxanthin.
Other studies have shown that antioxidant vitamins such as vitamin C and foods containing omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the risk of cataracts.
Another step that can be taken to reduce the risk of cataracts is to wear protective sunglasses, which block 100 percent of the sun's UV rays when the person is outdoors.
Other prevention methods
- Get regular eye exams. Eye exams can help detect cataracts and other eye problems in the early stages. Ask your doctor how often you should have an eye exam.
- Give up smoking. Ask your doctor for suggestions on how to quit smoking. There are medications, counseling, and other strategies to help you quit smoking.
- Control other health problems. Follow your treatment plan if you have diabetes or other diseases that may increase your risk of developing cataracts.
- Reduce alcohol consumption. Excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of developing cataracts.
If you have sudden changes in vision, such as double vision or flashes of light, sudden eye pain, or a sudden headache, see a doctor right away.
Remember that prevention is better than cure
