When the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy, it progresses in the same manner, is usually left untreated, and vision is lost. Cataracts can result from many factors, and most can affect lifestyle. It is a learning process that will help anyone learn how these factors contribute to eye health and develop good habits that can prevent cataracts.
Table of Contents
1. Smoking and Cataracts
Early cataracts are a major preventable cause, and smoking is a major cause in itself. This has been studied, and indeed, smokers have been shown to be more at risk of cataracts than non-smokers due to the breakdown of proteins in the eye’s lens from the harmful chemicals in tobacco. This damage causes clouding and blurring of vision. Reducing this risk to a near negligible level, ex-smokers have a lower risk of having catarrhs than smokers. If you continue smoking, your cataracts have a higher chance of worsening if you do not quit smoking at least five to ten years before this surgery.
2. Sun Exposure and UV Protection
Although cataracts result from long-term exposure to UV radiation, prolonged exposure to UV radiation might cause macular degeneration or photo-keratitis (sunburn of the eyes). UV rays damage the eye over time, being cumulative, and if not protected repeatedly, over time, the risk of cataracts is increased. Sunglasses also mean it’s important to pick sunglasses that have full UV protection, meaning both UVA and UVB rays, as not all sunglasses do.
Lenses polarized lenses can also help block glare further, making them a great choice when it comes to outdoor sports like driving or water sports. Furthermore, even if you’re on a cloudy day, you need UV protection; UV rays pass through clouds. Most damage to your eyes from UV rays can be eliminated by always wearing UV-blocking sunglasses and other measures, as well as having a healthier vision as you age.
3. Diet and Nutrition
Keeping your eyes healthy includes what you eat, as what you eat has a serious impact on your risk for cataracts. In fact, a diet high in antioxidants (vitamins C and E) has been shown to retard the progression of cataracts. These nutrients help to combat oxidative stress which can do damage to the lens over time. It may provide the necessary antioxidants to keep the eye healthy: fruits, nuts, and leafy greens. However, some ways you can reduce your likelihood of developing cataracts may include keeping a healthy, balanced diet.
4. Alcohol Consumption
The oxidative stress alcohol puts on the lens of the eye associated with cataracts has been linked to excessive alcohol consumption. The toxins made over time from heavy drinking can sometimes damage lens proteins and cause clouding of the lens and the loss of vision. Antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, which are essential for maintaining eye health, can also be depleted by an excess of alcohol. When you have a moderate alcohol intake, your risk of cataracts is reduced, and you support your overall eye health. If you drink, guidelines suggest staying within moderate levels, which most often means one drink a day for women and two for men.
5. Managing Chronic Health Conditions
The risk of cataract formation is greatly increased with chronic health problems, especially diabetes. Over time, elevated blood sugar levels may cause the proteins in the lens of the eye to become altered and eventually become cloudy, ultimately resulting in cataract signs, including blurred vision and sensitivity to light. These conditions are controlled with the right medication, routine checks, and a healthy lifestyle.
People with diabetes can reduce the chances of coming down with cataracts early if they keep their blood sugar levels steady. Regular eye exams are also vitally important to catch early cataract symptoms before they get worse, and treatment can be administered sooner. By remaining proactive with your overall health, you safeguard your vision as well as your overall quality of life.
Conclusion
The activities you perform on a daily basis play a role in contributing to the development of cataracts. Preventing bad habits such as smoking and heavy drinking, shielding your eyes from the sun’s rays, eating a balanced diet, and handling chronic conditions are to be avoided, all together steps that reduce the possibility of contracting cataracts. Protecting your vision and keeping your sight clearer for many more years to come, you can do this by making informed lifestyle choices.
