August - Cataract Awareness Month
Currently, there is no proven way to prevent the development of cataracts other than controlling medical conditions that may be the cause. However, new research in the area of areas of nutrition and UV "sunlight protection" have discovered promising findings.
Studies have shown that people who have inadequate intake of fruits and vegetables are much more likely to develop cataracts. Research done by the U.S. Department of Agriculture had indicated that people who eat less than 3 daily servings of fruits and vegetables are 4 times more likely to develop cataracts than those who eat more than 3 servings. Fruits and vegetables are rich in carotenoids and antioxidants (such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Vitamin A (beta carotene), which may deter oxidation of the eye's lens. Hence, cataracts may be delayed or prevented by consuming a diet rich in antioxidants or by supplementing with these nutrients.
Protection from excessive sunlight may help slow the progression of cataracts. Sunglasses that screen out (UV) light rays offer the recommended protection.
Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide. Approximately 20.5 million Americans age 40 and older have cataracts. A cataract is a clouding of all or part of the normally clear lens within the eye, which results in blurred or distorted vision. Cataracts block or alter the passage of light into the eye. They form slowly and cause no pain. Some stay small and have little affect on vision at first; however, if the cataract grows (becomes denser), so does the impact on vision.
There are no medications or exercises that will prevent the formation or progression of cataracts; but, eating a diet rich in antioxidants or supplementing with antioxidants such as Vitamin A (beta carotene), Vitamin C, Vitamin E and selenium appear to prevent or slow the progress of cataract disease. A recent research report suggests that lutein and zeaxanthin (the only carotenoids found in the lens) may be of value in delaying cataract development. If your Eye M.D. determines that your cataracts seriously affect your ability to function, surgery will most likely be recommended. New advances and techniques have made cataract surgery one of the most successful and life-improving surgical procedures.
Although it is not known what causes cataracts, studies have identified several possible risk factors, such as:
- Aging
- Long-term, unprotected exposure to UV Rays from sunlight
- Cigarette smoking
- Certain diseases, such as diabetes or HIV infection
- Hereditary influences
- Eye injuries
- Use of certain medications, such as steroids, diuretics, antihistamines and sulfa drugs
- High cholesterol/triglycerides
- Eye diseases
- Premature birth
In the early stages, only a doctor can detect a cataract because there may not be
any noticeable symptoms. The best method to manage age-related cataracts is to have them diagnosed early. It is recommended to see our opthalmologist (Eye M.D.) for a comprehensive eye exam at the following intervals:
- Adults between the ages of 40 - 65 every two to four years
- Adults age 65 and older every one to two years
When you notice a persistent change in vision, which may include any of the following symptoms, please notify your Eye M.D. as soon as possible:
- Blurry/distorted vision, especially in bright light
- Loss of night vision
- Glare, or light sensitivity
- Needing brighter light to read
- Fading or yellowing of colors
- Double vision
- Frequent changes in your eyeglass prescription
- Cloudy lens at birth
- Increased nearsightedness
Surgery is the only way a cataract can be removed. However, if symptoms of cataract are not bothering you very much, surgery may not be needed. Often in the early stages, a simple change in your eyeglass prescription, better lighting, or the use of a magnifier may be all that is required.
Surgery is considered when cataracts cause enough loss of vision to interfere with your daily activities such as job performance, driving, reading or watching TV in comfort. Based on your symptoms, you and your Eye M.D. will decide when surgery is appropriate. Continue to see your Eye M.D. regularly to evaluate how the cataract is progressing. Fortunately, new advances in technology have made cataract surgery one of the most common and successful surgical procedures.
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