Cataracts are a common symptom of aging, affecting nearly 1 in 5 people between the ages of 65 and 74. In fact, more than 50 percent of people over 80 either have cataracts or have had cataract surgery to correct them.

Cataracts are basically cloudy areas that form on the lens of your eye, with age-related cataracts being the most common kind. Cataracts come on gradually, leading to blurry vision, glare sensitivity, and significant visual impairment if ignored. While consistently linked to aging, the question arises: can cataracts be prevented?

While there’s no way to completely prevent cataracts from developing, lifestyle choices paired with early detection can reduce the risk and delay their development. To protect your vision as you age, it’s important to catch the early signs and incorporate healthy habits into your daily routine. Seeing an eye doctor in Austin TX regularly can help detect cataracts before they become an issue.

A Look at Cataracts

A cataract is essentially a clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which is located behind the iris and the pupil. The job of the lens is a lot like a camera lens: to focus light onto the retina for clear vision. With aging, proteins in the lens start to clump together and form cloudy areas, forming the beginning of a cataract.

With the passing of time, cataracts grow larger and cloud more of the lens, compromising vision. Most cataracts are age-related, but can also develop due to trauma, certain medications (such as steroids), prolonged UV exposure, smoking, and chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, according to the National Eye Institute.

Early Signs of Cataracts

Many people don’t even realize they have cataracts because they develop so slowly. But when you are on the lookout for the warning signs, you can catch them early and prevent major vision changes. Here’s what to watch for:

  • Blurry or cloudy vision: Objects may look hazy or less sharp than usual.
  • Sensitivity to light and glare: Bright lights may look too intense, often resulting in a halo effect.
  • Difficulty seeing at night: It’s often harder to see in low-light conditions with cataracts.
  • Fading or yellowing of colors: Colors may look dull or less vibrant.
  • Frequent prescription changes: Cataracts force you to update your glasses or contacts more often than usual.
  • Double vision in one eye: You may see double images, AKA “ghosting.”

Got any of these symptoms? Schedule an eye exam in Austin TX to determine the cause and take prompt action.

Cataract Prevention: Is It Possible?

Research shows that certain protective measures can significantly reduce the risk or delay the onset of cataracts. Bonus: these measures can also protect your overall eye health.

Shield Your Eyes

Long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light increases the risk of cataracts. Choose sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays to protect your eyes from harmful radiation, and wear wide-brimmed hats while outdoors.

Manage Chronic Health Conditions

Conditions such as diabetes can lead to cataract development. Control your blood sugar levels and follow your doctor’s advice to protect your vision.

Quit Smoking

The chemicals present in tobacco smoke increase oxidative stress, which in turn can damage proteins in the lens of the eye. Lower your risk for cataracts and improve your general health by nixing the smoking.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Just like your body benefits from healthy foods, so too do your eyes. Choose foods high in antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, lutein, and zeaxanthin. You can get these in leafy greens, carrots, citrus fruits, eggs, and nuts.

Avoid Steroids

Long-term use of corticosteroids can boost the risk of cataracts. If you need to take steroid medications for another condition, ask your doctor about possible alternatives.

Limit Alcohol Consumption

Excessive alcohol use has been associated with an increased risk of cataracts. Moderate drinking is less likely to cause harm than habitual heavy drinking.

Get Regular Eye Exams

Early detection is the best way to protect your vision. Schedule regular comprehensive eye exams to monitor your overall eye health and detect early signs of cataracts.

It may not be possible to avoid cataracts entirely, but there are some steps you can take on your own to reduce your risk. Whether you’re already noticing changes in your vision or just want to stay on top of potential issues as you get older, a proactive approach to eye care is essential.