Cataracts are a common cause of vision loss among older people. In fact, the National Eye Institute estimates that over half of all adults have had at least one cataract by the time they reach age 80.
Cataracts happen when proteins inside your eye’s natural lens start to clump together, clouding the clear lens. The cloudy lens blocks light from entering your eye, resulting in symptoms like dim vision, decreased color vision, and other sight-related symptoms.
Cataracts can be removed surgically, but ideally, it’s best to do all you can to avoid them in the first place. While you may not be able to completely erase your risk of developing cataracts as you age, the team at Long Island Ophthalmic Concepts wants you to know there are some steps you can take to lower your risk significantly — as long as you start taking those steps while you’re still young.
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can damage your eyes, including your eye’s lenses. Over time, cumulative exposure to UV from the sun or other sources (like tanning beds) can significantly increase your risk of cataracts. Always wear sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays whenever you go outside — even on cloudy days. Consider adding a wide-brimmed hat for even more protection.
Smoking damages the tiny vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to your eyes, and the chemicals in smoke can cause cellular damage associated with eye problems like cataracts. If you smoke, visit Smokefree.gov to find tips to help you quit.
Cataracts are a common problem for people with diabetes. That’s because elevated glucose (blood sugar) levels hasten changes in your eye’s lens, leading to cataract formation. If you have diabetes or prediabetes, make sure you follow your treatment plan carefully and schedule a diabetic eye exam with our team.
Most people know carrots are good for eye health, thanks to their high vitamin A levels. But other vitamins are important, too, including antioxidant vitamins like C and E. These vitamins help prevent cell damage that can lead to cataracts and other vision problems. Incorporate plenty of leafy green vegetables, brightly colored vegetables, and dark-colored berries, and avoid unhealthy fats. Ask our team about vitamins designed for vision health.
If you participate in a sport, job, or other activity where your eyes could be injured, it’s important to wear protective goggles or other protective eyewear at all times to reduce the risk of injury to your eye, including the eye lens. Eye injuries can cause cataracts, and they can also increase the risk of developing them later on.
Age-related cataracts typically take years to develop. Having comprehensive eye exams on a regular basis is one of the best ways to look for subtle changes that could be associated with cataracts or other vision problems, so you can take preventive measures.
It’s easy to take good vision for granted, but by taking proactive steps now, you can reduce your risk of cataracts and other vision-related problems in the future. To learn more about preventive steps you can take or to learn about your personal risk factors for cataracts, request an appointment online or over the phone with the team at Long Island Ophthalmic Concepts in Bellmore and Great Neck, New York, today.
