16 Jun The facts about cataracts
June is Cataract Awareness Month, so here’s an overview of what cataracts are, how they manifest themselves and what you can do to prevent them.
What are cataracts?
A cataract is a condition in which the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, reducing the amount of light that reaches the retina and affecting your vision. Cataracts usually develop slowly with age, although they can also result from injury, certain medical conditions, or prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light. If left untreated, cataracts can significantly impair daily activities such as reading and driving, but they are typically treated with a safe and effective surgical procedure that replaces the cloudy lens with an artificial one.
Common signs of cataracts
These include:
• Blurred or misty vision
• Increased sensitivity to light and glare
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Colours appearing faded or yellowed
• Frequent changes to your glasses prescription
Can cataracts be prevented?
The simple answer is ‘no’, but while they can’t always be prevented, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk and help to delay their development. It’s beneficial to protect your eyes from ultraviolet (UV) radiation by wearing sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat outdoors, and to avoid smoking, as that increases the likelihood of cataract formation. Eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, including fruits and leafy green vegetables, will also support your eye health. Managing medical conditions such as diabetes, maintaining a healthy weight and limiting excessive alcohol consumption can also be helpful. Regular eye examinations can detect early changes and help ensure any vision problems are treated promptly and effectively.
At Eyes of Swavesey Opticians, we focus on helping you maintain clear, healthy vision, which includes monitoring the development of cataracts. If you’ve noticed changes in your vision or it’s time for your routine eye test, get in touch with our friendly team today by calling us on 01954 231158 or booking online here.
