7 Ways to Slow the Development of Cataracts (and Minimize Risk Other Eye Problems) Today and Everyday: Cataract Awareness Month

​As cataracts are the leading cause of blindness in the world today, knowing how to slow their onset and progression is important information. That’s why, for this Cataract Awareness Month, we’re looking at seven (7) ways to slow the development of cataracts. 
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Before we dive in, it’s important to note that while no clinical research studies have proved how to prevent or slow the progression of cataracts, eye doctors agree that the strategies listed below may be helpful. Further, each of the strategies listed are all considered good for general eye and overall health. In other words, they can’t hurt to try!

1. Protect Eyes from Exposure to Sunlight

As radiation from exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun can contribute to the development of cataracts, protecting your eyes from UV light is important. Avoid prolonged and excessive exposure, and always wear UV-blocking sunglasses, specifically UVB (ultraviolet B) blocking, when outside. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat in conjunction with appropriate sunglasses and sticking to the shade when possible can also help minimize exposure of your eyes to harmful sunlight.

2. Eat a Healthy, Well-Balanced Diet

Choosing a diet that has plenty of fruits and vegetables, particularly a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, will help to ensure that you’re getting the vitamins and nutrients you need to support your general eye and overall health. In addition, fruits and vegetables contain important and powerful antioxidants, which help to support and maintain the health of your eyes. 

3. Maintain a Healthy Weight

As obesity is considered a risk factor for developing cataracts and other eye and health problems, achieving or maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise and a healthy diet is important to eye and general / overall health. 

4. Don’t Smoke

If you want to protect your eyes from cataracts and other serious eye issues, don’t smoke. If you currently smoke and are ready to stop, there are many resources to help you. We recommend visiting your primary care physician or family care doctor as a starting point.  

5. Reduce Alcohol Use

As excessive alcohol consumption can increase risk of developing cataracts and other series eye and general / overall health problems, reducing alcohol use and drinking only in moderation will reduce your risk of cataracts and other serious eye conditions. 

6. Manage Other Health Problems

If you have diabetes or other conditions that increase risk of cataracts and other eye problems such as high blood pressure, following your treatment plan is important to minimizing your risk. Work with your doctors to ensure that your health problems are being managed properly, and use your primary care physician to help coordinate your care amongst any medical specialists that you may be seeing. 

7. Have Regular Complete Eye Examinations

Complete eye examinations allow your eye doctor to assess the health of your eyes and your vision and detect any signs of eye problems or diseases. Early detection and treatment is important to protecting your eyes and your eyesight. We recommend the following complete eye examination schedule based on age:

• Age 20-29: At least one (1) eye examination during this time
• Age 30-39: At least two (2) eye examinations during this time
• Age 40-49: Eye examination every two to four (2-4) years
• Age 50+: Eye examination every year (annually)

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​Although taking these seven steps today and everyday many not prevent the development of cataracts and other eye problems, they can help to minimize risk and slow development.
 
If you would like to discuss your risk of developing cataracts and how to prevent of eye problems or if you are due for a complete eye examination, please call us to schedule an appointment.
 
In our next blog post, we’ll take a look at modern, small incision, cataract surgery and if it’s the right procedure for you.