Can Cataracts Be Prevented?
- Posted on: Apr 30 2019
Trusted cataract surgeon Dr. Gregory Pamel fields many cataract-related questions and concerns from prospective patients. One of the most common questions that comes up in consultation is whether cataracts can be prevented. Read on for the answer.
The Biggest Risk Factor Is Out Of Your Control
Cataracts are largely considered a function of the aging process. With advancing age, the proteins in the lens start to break down and clump together. This creates cloudy areas of the lens that make vision blurry or hazy. Most people develop some degree of clouding in the lens by the age of 60. If you live long enough, your eyes will very likely develop cataracts.
Other Risk Factors for Cataracts
Age may be the primary risk factor for cataracts, but research suggests that other risk factors (some of them manageable) may influence the development and progression of cataracts:
- Smoking
- Excess alcohol consumption
- Overexposure to UV rays
- Use of corticosteroid drugs
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- History of injury to the eye
- Previous eye surgery
While it is not entirely clear whether addressing these risk factors will prevent cataracts, only good can come from making some healthy lifestyle changes. Taking measures such as not smoking, drinking alcohol in moderation and protecting your eyes from the sun by wearing glasses or hats may delay the development of some cataracts. It is important to regulate your blood sugar if you have diabetes, manage high blood pressure and limit the use of corticosteroid medications when possible. Also, you should eat a healthy diet full of foods with vitamins and minerals (e.g., fruits, vegetables, lean protein and whole grains), as good nutrition can support ocular health.
Stay On Top of Your Eye Health with Regular Exams
Even if your eyes seem healthy, it is important to see Dr. Pamel regularly for eye exams. With regular visits, you may be able to detect cataracts before they have a noticeable impact on your vision and daily life. For the sake of your eye health and peace of mind, you should see Dr. Pamel every two years for an exam, or annually if you are over the age of 60. If cataracts have already taken a toll on your visual clarity, Dr. Pamel can talk to you about cataract surgery to restore clear vision.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Pamel, please contact Pamel Vision and Laser Group today.
Posted in: Cataract Surgery
