Most Common Causes of Cataract: What You Need to Know

What Are Cataracts?

Cataracts are a clouding of the eye’s natural lens. This lens sits behind the colored part of your eye. When it becomes cloudy, vision gets blurry or dim. As a result, daily tasks like reading or driving can become hard. Cataracts are a leading cause of vision loss worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), they cause over half of all blindness cases globally. Understanding the most common causes of cataract can help you protect your eyesight.

Why Do Cataracts Develop?

Many people wonder why cataracts form. Usually, cataracts develop as people age. However, other factors can also play a role. The lens in your eye is mostly made of water and protein. Over time, these proteins can clump together. This clumping causes the lens to become cloudy. While aging is the main reason, other causes can speed up this process. Knowing these causes can help you take steps to lower your risk.

Most Common Causes of Cataract

Several factors can lead to cataracts. Below are the most common causes of cataract:

Aging: Most cataracts develop as a natural part of getting older. The lens changes over time, making cloudiness more likely.

Family History: If your parents or siblings had cataracts, you may have a higher chance too.

Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage the lens, leading to cataracts sooner.

Eye Injuries: Sometimes, a blow or injury to the eye can cause cataracts to form quickly.

Long-term Sun Exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can harm the lens. People living in sunny regions may be at greater risk.

Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of cataracts. Harmful chemicals can damage the lens over time.

Alcohol Use: Drinking too much alcohol can raise your chances of getting cataracts.

Use of Certain Medicines: Long-term use of steroids or some other drugs can lead to cataracts.

Previous Eye Surgery: Surgery for other eye problems can sometimes cause cataracts later on.

Radiation Exposure: People who have had radiation treatment near the eyes may develop cataracts.

Risk Factors That Increase Cataract Chances

Some people are more likely to get cataracts than others. For example, age is the biggest risk factor. But, there are other things that can raise your risk. These include:

Being over age 60

Having a family history of cataracts

Living in areas with strong sunlight

Having diabetes or other health problems

Smoking or drinking alcohol often

Using steroid medicines for a long time

Because these risk factors can add up, it is important to know your own risks. That way, you can take steps to protect your eyes.

How to Reduce Your Risk

While you cannot stop aging, you can lower your risk of cataracts in other ways. Here are some simple tips:

Wear sunglasses that block UV rays when you go outside

Eat a healthy diet with lots of fruits and vegetables

Do not smoke, or try to quit if you do

Limit how much alcohol you drink

Manage health problems like diabetes with your doctor’s help

Have regular eye exams, especially as you get older

By following these steps, you can help keep your eyes healthy. Early action can make a big difference.

Conclusion

To sum up, cataracts are common, but you can lower your risk. Knowing the most common causes of cataract helps you make smart choices. If you notice changes in your vision, do not wait.

Consult an eye specialist at Srijan Eye & Mother Care for personalized advice on cataract prevention and care.