June is Cataract Awareness Month: Protect Your Vision and Learn About Cataracts

What Are Cataracts?

A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which lies behind the iris and the pupil. As the lens clouds over time, it begins to obstruct light from passing through to the retina, resulting in blurry, dim, or discolored vision. Cataracts usually develop slowly and are painless, but they can significantly impact vision over time, making it hard to see at night, read, or distinguish colors.

Common Symptoms of Cataracts:

• Blurry or clouded vision
• Difficulty seeing at night or in low light
• Increased sensitivity to glare from lights
• Halos around lights
• Colors appearing faded or yellowed
• Frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescriptions

Who Is at Risk?

While cataracts primarily affect older adults, they can also develop due to other factors, such as:

• Age: The primary risk factor; most people over age 65 will experience some cataract formation.
• Genetics: Family history of cataracts can increase your risk.
• UV Exposure: Prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun without proper eye protection can contribute to cataract formation.
• Smoking: Linked to an increased risk of cataracts, smoking accelerates the natural aging of eye tissues.
• Diabetes: People with diabetes are at higher risk, as high blood sugar levels can accelerate the development of cataracts.
• Injury or Trauma: Past eye injuries, inflammation, or surgery can lead to cataract formation.

Cataract Treatment Options

The only effective treatment for cataracts is surgery, during which the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens (an intraocular lens, or IOL). Cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed surgeries worldwide and has a high success rate in restoring vision. There are different types of IOLs available, including ones that can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.

Steps to Protect Your Vision

1. Schedule Regular Eye Exams: Comprehensive eye exams can detect cataracts early, along with other age-related eye conditions.
2. Wear Sunglasses: Protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays is crucial. Choose sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
3. Eat a Nutrient-Rich Diet: Foods high in antioxidants, like leafy greens, berries, and fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, support eye health.
4. Quit Smoking: If you smoke, consider quitting. Smoking accelerates aging in the eyes and is linked to a higher risk of cataracts.
5. Manage Chronic Conditions: Conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure can increase the risk of cataracts. Work with your healthcare provider to manage these conditions.

Observing Cataract Awareness Month

June is the perfect time to prioritize eye health, especially if you're over 40. Here are a few ways to spread awareness:

• Get an Eye Exam: Schedule a comprehensive eye exam for yourself or encourage family members to get one, especially if they’re over 40.
• Share Information: Use social media to spread awareness about cataract symptoms, risk factors, and the importance of regular eye check-ups.
• Educate Yourself on Treatment Options: If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cataracts, learn about the different surgical options and intraocular lenses available.
• Encourage Healthy Habits: Promote wearing UV-protective sunglasses, eating a balanced diet, and quitting smoking to protect vision long-term.

In Conclusion

Cataracts are a natural part of aging, but they don’t have to mean losing your vision. With early detection and regular eye care, cataracts can be managed effectively, allowing you to maintain clear vision and quality of life. This Cataract Awareness Month, take the time to understand cataracts and take proactive steps to protect your vision and that of your loved ones.