There are various conditions that affect our eyes, especially as we get older. One common condition is cataracts, which are cloudy areas on the eye’s lens that cause blurry vision.
Here’s an overview of what cataracts are, as well as their causes and treatment solutions.
Causes of Cataracts
Most cataracts are age-related and result from natural changes in the eyes that happen as we get older. The proteins in the eyes begin to break down and cluster together in clumps after the age of 40. These clumps create cloudy areas on the lens of the eye, which get worse over time. However, other eye problems, such as an injury or surgery, can cause cataracts to form prematurely.
Symptoms of Cataracts
There are often no early warning signs that cataracts are developing in your eyes, especially if they are mild. As they become larger, you may notice changes in your vision. Colors may look faded, your night vision may get worse, and you may see a halo effect around lights. Double-vision, lights that seem too bright, and feeling the need to change your glasses or contacts prescription are other telltale signs of cataracts.
There are certain factors that make you more at risk of developing cataracts, such as drinking excess alcohol, smoking cigarettes, having diabetes, and spending lots of time in the bright sunshine. Certain steroid medications can increase your cataract risk, as well as a family history of this eye disease.
Natural Approaches to Cataract Treatment
To truly get rid of cataracts, surgery is typically required. However, treatment is not always necessary right away or even at all for certain people with mild conditions. You can get a new prescription for your glasses or contacts to see better and reduce slight blurring. Anti-glare sunglasses, magnifying lenses, and brighter lights to work can help people manage daily life with cataracts. Researchers are still studying potential ways to remove cataracts without surgery with specialized eye drops and medicinal plants.
You can do your best to prevent cataracts by wearing sunglasses with UV protection, avoiding tobacco smoke, and getting regular checkups from an optometrist. Meanwhile, keeping up with treatments for underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes, can help prevent cataracts from developing or worsening rapidly.
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