There’s a high likelihood that you will one day have cataracts. Over time, our vision worsens as we age. Developing cataracts is a normal part of the aging process.
As with all health conditions, early detection is best. This also applies to the detection of cataracts. When detected early, cataracts become treated earlier. This keeps your vision loss due to cataracts smaller.
When caught in the early stages, cataract treatment includes glasses and sunglasses. These are only temporary measures. When glasses and sunglasses no longer help, it’s time for cataract surgery at Riverside Eye Center.
If you have cataracts, you may be unsure what facts you need to know. When cataracts aren’t treated, they can often lead to blindness. Keep reading to learn more about cataracts!
Can I Get Cataracts If I’m Healthy?
No matter how healthy you may be, you can still get cataracts. They are a natural part of our body growing older. Although cataracts can develop when younger, most patients don’t notice symptoms right away.
It can take years to develop a cataract or even decades! Many patients only start noticing cataracts when they are in their sixties. Once a cataract has completely developed, the most common symptom is vision loss. This vision loss will make it more difficult to complete everyday activities. Everyone is at risk of developing cataracts because of aging, but these are the most common:
Risk Factors
- A family history of cataracts
- Being of African American descent
- Being of Latino/Hispanic descent
- If you have diabetes
- Smoking
- Drinking alcohol
- Overexposure to sunlight
Can I Reduce My Risk Of Cataracts?
To reduce your risk of cataracts, make sure you stay healthy. You’re more likely to develop cataracts if your body is out of shape. Follow these other tips to reduce your risk:
- If you know that you are at a higher risk for developing cataracts, be proactive! This means seeing your eye doctor at Riverside Eye Center each year for a comprehensive eye exam.
- If you are diabetic, keep your blood sugar levels under control. You should also have an annual comprehensive eye exam.
- If you don’t smoke, don’t start. If you do, talk to your doctor about how to quit. Smoking can lead to earlier development of cataracts!
- Don’t drink alcohol in excess
- Wear UVB sunglasses and hats.
Cataract Warning Signs To Watch Out For
A Change In Your Vision:
If you notice that your vision is blurry or your prescription has changed, see your eye doctor as soon as possible.
Halos And Glares:
You may become more sensitive to light. This could lead you to experience halos and glare from oncoming traffic. This is most common when you’re driving at night.
Difficulty Driving:
Driving will become more difficult when you have cataracts, especially at night. Your vision may seem fuzzy or blurry.
Tinted Vision:
You may experience brown or yellow tinted vision. You may also have difficulty distinguishing colors, like purple and black.
Want more information about cataracts? Contact Riverside Eye Center to schedule an appointment with one of our talented doctors today!