Cataracts Cause Cloudy Vision

Vision is one of the vital senses that we use every day, so a condition that interferes with vision can affect quality of life, ability to work, enjoyment of hobbies and social life. Many people have vision problems that can be corrected with eyeglasses or contact lenses, but cataracts are a condition that requires more advanced attention by a eye doctor.

Cataracts are a condition of the eye that is most common in elder adults, but can also occur in younger people. The cataracts cloud the lens of the eye, making it difficult to see clearly.

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH) website, age related cataracts can affect vision by clouding up the lens and making vision blurry or by slowly changing to a yellow/brown color, adding a brownish tint to vision.

Age is not the only risk for cataracts. Cataracts can also from after surgery for other eye problems, after an eye injury, due to radiation exposure and due to a congenital defect.

Diabetes is a disease that can cause cataracts. Certain lifestyle choices, such as drinking alcohol and smoking, can increase the risk of cataracts. People who spend a lot of time in the sunshine also have an increased risk of cataracts.

Some risk factors for cataracts cannot be controlled, but lifestyle choices can help to prevent the condition. Risk factors that cannot be controlled include age, eye injury and genetics. There are also risk factors that can be controlled, such as exposure to UV radiation from sunlight, smoking, drinking alcohol and poor diet.

According to the NIH, researchers believe that proper nutrition can help to reduce risk of age related cataracts. Protecting the eyes from sun damages by wearing a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses to block ultraviolet sunlight may help to delay the onset.

People who are aged 60 and above should get a dilated eye exam at least once every two years. 'The eye care professional can also check for signs of other eye conditions, such as glaucoma and age related degeneration.

If cataracts are detected, your eye care professional can make treatment recommendations. If the cataract is found early, vision may be improved with new eyeglasses, anti-glare sunglasses and brighter lighting.

For more serious cataracts, the cataract can be surgically removed. An eye care profession can offer information and recommendations about the risks and benefits of surgery.

Resources: National Institute of Health

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