Can you Prevent Cataracts?

Cataracts are a change in the eye’s lens, where it becomes so cloudy that it impairs your vision. Cataracts happen as we age and there is no proven way to prevent them or to reverse the damage once it has begun.

Cataracts can also be caused by problems such as diabetes, eye trauma, certain drugs, or prolonged sunlight exposure. In these situations, some precautions can sometimes prevent cataracts from forming:

1. If you are diabetic, keep your blood sugar and diabetes under control.
2. Pay close attention to the side effects of drugs such as steroids and psoriasis medications. Prolonged use or high doses can cause cataracts over time.
3. Protect your eyes from ultraviolet light. It is as harmful to your eyes as it is to your skin.
4. Be sure to have antioxidants in your diet and/or as a supplement. Vitamins such as beta carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin E have been shown to slow the development of cataracts.
5. Protect your eyes from any type of injury. Trauma to the eyes can cause a cataract almost immediately, so it is important to wear safety glasses when necessary.

Preliminary studies have also indicated that vigorous exercise or caffeine intake to prohibit free radicals (unstable and damaging molecules) may be helpful in preventing cataracts. Still, the best way to care for your eye health and prevent vision loss from cataracts is to educate yourself and to have regular eye exams.

Our team is available to answer any questions you may have about eye health and disease prevention. If you'd like to have a more in-depth discussion about your own case, please call or email eye surgeon Dr. Carter for a free personal consultation.