Cataracts are a leading cause of vision impairment and blindness worldwide, but they don’t develop overnight. This common eye condition often progresses slowly, making it crucial to understand your personal risk factors. The good news is that cataracts are treatable, and many of the risks can be managed with the right steps. At Reeve Woods Eye Center, we’re here to help you safeguard your vision by providing education, prevention, and treatment.

What Are Cataracts?

A cataract forms when the proteins in the lens of your eye break down and clump together, causing cloudy areas that blur your vision. The condition can affect one or both eyes and may lead to symptoms like:
 

• Blurry or hazy vision
   

• Difficulty seeing at night or in low light
   

• Sensitivity to glare from lights
   

• Faded colors or yellowing of vision
   

• Frequent changes in prescription for glasses or contact lenses

While cataracts are often associated with aging, they can develop at any age due to other factors, many of which can be addressed with early intervention.

What Increases Your Risk for Cataracts?

Let’s dive deeper into the most common factors that influence your likelihood of developing cataracts.

1. Age

Age is the leading contributor to cataracts. By the time you reach 40, natural changes in your lens begin, but noticeable symptoms may not appear until later. The older you get, the higher your risk becomes. By age 75, nearly 50% of people have some degree of cataract formation.

2. Family History and Genetics

Your genetic makeup plays a significant role in your eye health. If cataracts run in your family, your chances of developing them increase. Understanding this genetic predisposition allows for earlier monitoring and preventive care.

3. Prolonged UV Exposure

The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays are harmful to your eyes, just as they are to your skin. Chronic exposure to UV light can lead to cataract development. Wearing sunglasses with 100% UV protection and wide-brimmed hats is essential when outdoors, even on cloudy days.

4. Smoking and Excessive Alcohol Use
 

• Smoking: The chemicals in cigarette smoke create oxidative stress, damaging the proteins in your eye’s lens. Studies show that smokers are two to three times more likely to develop cataracts compared to non-smokers.
   

• Alcohol: Regular excessive alcohol intake may disrupt your body’s ability to repair oxidative damage, increasing the risk of cataracts over time.

5. Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions, particularly those affecting metabolism or circulation, can elevate your risk:
 

• Diabetes: People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing cataracts due to high blood sugar levels, which can damage the lens over time.
   

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Poor blood flow and increased oxidative stress can harm eye health, leading to cataracts.

6. Long-Term Use of Medications

Corticosteroids, often prescribed for inflammatory or autoimmune conditions, are known to increase cataract risk with prolonged use. Always inform your eye doctor about your medications to monitor potential side effects.

7. Eye Trauma or Surgery

Injuries to the eye or previous eye surgeries can damage the lens and accelerate cataract formation. Protecting your eyes from injury and seeking immediate care for eye trauma is crucial for maintaining long-term vision health.

Steps to Lower Your Risk

You can take proactive measures to lower your risk of cataracts and maintain healthy eyes:

1. Prioritize UV Protection
 

• Always wear sunglasses with 100% UVA and UVB protection.
   

• Consider polarized lenses to reduce glare and improve visibility.

2. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol
 

• If you smoke, seek support to quit.
   

• Reduce alcohol intake to moderate levels.

3. Maintain a Balanced Diet
 

• Incorporate foods rich in antioxidants, such as leafy greens, carrots, sweet potatoes, citrus fruits, and nuts.
   

• Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish can also benefit eye health.

4. Manage Chronic Health Conditions
 

• Work with your doctor to keep diabetes and hypertension under control.
   

• Regular check-ups can help identify and manage health conditions that may contribute to cataracts.

5. Protect Your Eyes from Injury
 

• Wear protective eyewear during activities that could cause eye injuries, such as sports or home improvement projects.

6. Schedule Regular Eye Exams

Routine eye exams are your first line of defense in detecting cataracts early. Your eye doctor can monitor changes in your lens and recommend timely interventions to preserve your vision.

Early Detection and Treatment at Reeve Woods Eye Center

Cataracts are highly treatable, especially when detected early. Our comprehensive eye exams can identify early signs of cataracts and other vision problems. If treatment becomes necessary, cataract surgery is a safe and effective option to restore your vision and improve your quality of life.

Don’t wait until cataracts begin to interfere with your life. Take control of your eye health today by scheduling an eye exam at Reeve Woods Eye Center. Contact our office in Chico, California, by calling (530) 317-EYES to book an appointment today.