Is your vision not as clear as it used to be? If things look blurry or hazy, cataracts could be to blame. Even though cataracts are one of the most common causes of vision loss in adults 40+, most adults are unaware of the condition and the factors that put their sight at risk. Cataracts, like glaucoma, often show little to no warning signs. This is why it is important to pay attention to you eyes – just because you don’t see a problem doesn’t mean there isn’t one. 

Here are some things you should know about Cataracts:

What are cataracts?
Cataracts form when the natural lens inside the eye becomes cloudy. In a healthy eye, the lens, which helps you see by refracting light rays, is clear. But as a cataract forms, vision gets blurry or hazy, making it difficult to see.

Signs & Symptoms
Because cataracts form gradually, you may not immediately see a change in your vision.
Other symptoms include:

• Sensitivity to light
• Double vision
• Inability to see bright colors.

Risk factors
It’s unknown what causes cataracts. While aging is the most common cause of cataracts, there are other risk factors such as heredity, diabetes, eye injuries, and damage from UV rays.

Different Types
There are four types of cataracts.

• Age-related: This affects about 95% of adults 40 years or older.
• Congenital: present at birth.
• Traumatic: formed after an eye injury.
• Secondary: caused by medicine, and diseases like diabetes.

Prevention
While cataracts may not be completely avoidable, there are a few ways to slow down the development of them.

• Protect your eyes from the sun by wearing sunglasses
• Avoid smoking
• Eat foods rich in antioxidants (Berries, nuts, carrots, and leafy greens, to name a few)
• If you’re diabetic, managing your blood sugar
• Regular Eye Exams

Premier Medical can not stress enough the importance of getting regular eye exams. If your vision isn’t as clear as it used to be, it’s time to come see one of our eye physicians.