Cataracts affect over 24 million people in the United States over the age of 40, it is often thought of as an eye condition in older people. Eye Doctors are discovering more and more young adults developing cataracts.
According to Prevent Blindness, the risk factors that may lead to getting cataracts at a younger age include:
Intense heat or long-term exposure to UV rays from the sun
Certain diseases, such as diabetes
Inflammation in the eye
Hereditary influences
Events before birth, such as German measles in the mother
Long-term steroid use
Severe long-term nearsightedness (myopia)
Eye injuries
Eye diseases
Smoking
“A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s lens that leads to decreased vision. The lens is important because it focuses images onto the retina at the back of the eye. The image is then processed and sent to the brain. As a cataract matures, it often causes glare, as well as diminished contrast and color sensitivity. Over time, if left untreated, cataracts lead to decreased vision. The good news is the risk of developing cataracts can be reduced,” according to Friends for Sight.
The lens in our eyes are mostly made up of protein and water, the protein keeps our lenses clear. Sometimes the protein clumps together as we age or from certain diseases, these clumps can cloud certain areas of the eye lens. The clump usually grows larger over time, making it difficult to see. Because the changes happen slowly you may not notice changes in your vision, which is why it is important to have a regular comprehensive exam. The earlier you catch a cataract the better off you are.
Cataract Symptoms Include, dim, blurred or cloudy vision, sensitivity to glare and light, difficulty seeing at night, double vision only in one eye, yellowing or fading of colors, seeing ‘halos’ around lights, changing your eyeglass or contact lenses prescription frequently
“Although getting a cataract is common, it doesn’t have to mean permanent vision loss,” said Hugh R. Parry, president and CEO of Prevent Blindness America. “One way to protect our vision is to make a commitment to take care of our eyes today, including getting a dilated eye exam, so we can help protect our sight for the future not just from cataract, but other eye diseases as well.”
Don’t put if off any longer, schedule your comprehensive eye exam today with Lake Nona Eye Care or call us at 407-658-9990.