What Causes Cataracts? Understanding the Most Common Risk Factors

What Is a Cataract?

A cataract is a cloudy area that forms in the lens of your eye. Because of this cloudiness, vision becomes blurry or dim. Cataracts are a leading cause of vision loss worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, cataracts cause about 51% of global blindness. Understanding the most common causes of cataract can help you protect your eyesight.

Why Do Cataracts Develop? (Overview)

Cataracts develop when proteins in the eye’s lens clump together. As a result, the lens becomes cloudy. This process can happen slowly over time. While aging is the main reason, other factors can speed up cataract growth. Knowing these causes helps you lower your risk.

Most Common Causes of Cataract

Many things can lead to cataracts. Below are the most common causes:

Aging: Most cataracts form as people get older. The lens changes with age, making cloudiness more likely.

Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage the eye’s lens. People with diabetes have a higher risk of early cataracts.

UV Exposure: Spending a lot of time in sunlight without eye protection can harm the lens. Ultraviolet (UV) rays speed up cataract growth.

Genetics: Family history plays a role. If your parents or siblings had cataracts, your risk is higher.

Eye Injury (Trauma): An injury to the eye can cause cataracts to form quickly or later in life.

Certain Medications: Long-term use of steroids or some other medicines can increase your risk.

Other less common causes include smoking, heavy alcohol use, and some eye surgeries.

Who Is at Risk?

Some people are more likely to get cataracts. For example, older adults face the highest risk. However, other groups are also at risk:

People with diabetes or high blood sugar

Those with a family history of cataracts

Individuals who spend lots of time in the sun without sunglasses

People who smoke or drink alcohol heavily

Anyone who has had an eye injury or surgery

Long-term users of steroid medications

Even though some risk factors cannot be changed, you can still take steps to protect your eyes.

Prevention Tips

While you cannot stop aging, you can lower your risk of cataracts. Try these simple tips:

Wear sunglasses that block UV rays whenever you are outside

Manage health problems like diabetes with regular check-ups

Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables

Quit smoking and limit alcohol use

Protect your eyes from injury by wearing safety glasses when needed

Discuss medication side effects with your doctor

By making these changes, you can help keep your eyes healthy for longer.

When to See an Eye Specialist

It is important to see an eye specialist if you notice any changes in your vision. For instance, if you have blurry vision, trouble seeing at night, or colors seem faded, get your eyes checked. Early treatment can prevent further vision loss. In addition, regular eye exams help catch cataracts and other eye problems early.

In summary, knowing the most common causes of cataract can help you protect your eyesight. Consult an eye specialist for personalized advice on cataract prevention and treatment.