How Do You Stop Cataracts from Getting Worse?

Your lens works much like a camera lens, focusing light onto the retina to produce a clear image. However, when a cataract forms, it's as if your lens is covered by a foggy mirror, distorting the light that passes through it and leading to blurred or cloudy vision.
 

What are the Causes and Symptoms of Cataracts?

In most cases, cataracts develop as a result of aging. As you get older, the proteins in your lens may start to clump together, forming the cloudiness that characterizes a cataract. Other causes can include certain medical conditions like diabetes, injuries to the eye, or prolonged exposure to harmful ultraviolet sunlight. Even some medications, especially corticosteroids, may contribute to cataract formation.
 

The symptoms are often subtle and progress slowly. At first, you might notice that your vision is just a little blurry, like looking through a piece of cloudy glass. You may also find lights too bright or glaring, or see a halo around lights at night. Colors may not seem as bright as they used to, and it might be tough to see at night.
 

Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Cataracts from Progressing

First and foremost, protect your eyes from UV light. Exposure to sunlight has been linked to cataract development. Wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays can protect your eyes. Similarly, if you're a smoker, consider quitting. Smoking generates free radicals, harmful molecules that can damage the cells of the lens and contribute to cataract development and progression.
 

Regular exercise can also help to prevent or control health conditions like diabetes that can contribute to cataract development. Even simple activities like walking or cycling can be beneficial.
 

A healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables can provide your body with the antioxidants it needs to protect your eyes from damage. Foods high in vitamins C and E, beta carotene, and other antioxidants can help to protect your eyes from the oxidative damage that can lead to cataracts.
 

Lastly, if you drink alcohol, moderation is key. Excessive alcohol consumption can increase your risk of cataracts and other health conditions. Aim for moderate drinking or even consider abstaining completely to protect your eye health.
 

The Benefits of Regular Eye Exams in Cataract Management

Regular eye exams are crucial in managing cataracts effectively. They allow your eye doctor to monitor the condition of your eyes and the progression of your cataracts. They can also adjust your prescription for glasses or contact lenses as needed, helping you to cope with changes in your vision.
 

Routine eye exams can also help to detect other eye conditions that could be contributing to your vision changes. Glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy are just a few of the conditions that your eye doctor can screen for during an eye exam.
 

Medical Treatments for Cataracts

If your cataracts continue to progress and significantly affect your vision, it might be time to consider medical treatments. The most common treatment for cataracts is surgery. This involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial one. Cataract surgery is generally safe and effective, restoring vision in the majority of cases.
 

There are two main types of cataract surgery: phacoemulsification and extracapsular surgery. In phacoemulsification, the most common type, the surgeon makes a small incision in the eye and uses ultrasound waves to break up the cataract, which is then removed by suction. In extracapsular surgery, the cataract is removed in one piece through a larger incision.

While surgery is the most effective treatment for cataracts, it's typically only recommended when your cataracts have progressed to the point where they significantly affect your daily life and activities. If your cataracts are still small and your vision is only slightly affected, your doctor might recommend simply monitoring them for any changes.
 

Taking Steps to Protect Your Vision and Eye Health

While cataracts can indeed affect your vision, there are steps you can take to prevent them from getting worse. Protecting your eyes from UV light, maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding smoking, and getting regular eye exams can all contribute to slowing the progression of cataracts. If your cataracts do progress to the point where they significantly affect your vision, effective treatments are available.
 

For more information on how to prevent cataracts from progressing, contact Jackman Optometry at our office in Santa Ana, California. Please call (714) 543-2022 to schedule an appointment today.