What Is the Major Cause of Cataracts? How to Prevent Them from Worsening

Cataracts are a leading cause of vision impairment worldwide, especially as people age. A cataract occurs when the clear lens of the eye becomes clouded, leading to blurry vision, difficulty seeing at night, and sensitivity to light. While cataracts are common, understanding how to prevent them from worsening can help preserve your vision for years to come.
 

What Causes Cataracts to Develop?

The primary cause of cataracts is aging. Over time, the proteins in the lens of your eye can break down and clump together, forming a cloudy area. This natural aging process is the most significant risk factor, but other contributors can accelerate cataract development, including:

• Prolonged UV exposure without proper eye protection

• Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption

• Diabetes and other health conditions

• Eye injuries or previous eye surgeries

• Certain medications, like corticosteroids
   

While aging cannot be avoided, understanding the risk factors can empower you to take preventive steps to maintain healthy vision.
 

How to Prevent Cataracts from Worsening

Although you cannot completely prevent cataracts, there are proactive measures you can take to slow their progression:

• Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays: Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays when outdoors.

• Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle: Avoid smoking, limit alcohol consumption, and maintain a balanced diet rich in antioxidants like vitamin C and E.

• Manage Chronic Conditions: Keep conditions like diabetes under control with regular medical care.

• Use Proper Eye Protection: Protect your eyes from injury during sports or hazardous work.

• Stay on Top of Medications: Work with your healthcare providers to manage medications that may contribute to cataract formation.
   

Making these lifestyle choices can make a significant difference in preserving your vision as you age.
 

Why Routine Eye Exams Matter

One of the most effective ways to detect cataracts early and monitor their progression is through regular comprehensive eye exams. At Optic Gallery Sahara, our team can identify signs of cataracts before they severely impact your vision. Early detection allows for better management, lifestyle recommendations, and timely intervention when necessary. 
 

Skipping routine eye exams can lead to late-stage diagnosis when cataracts are more advanced and more challenging to manage. Regular check-ups not only monitor cataracts but also ensure your overall eye health is protected.
 

Prioritize Your Eye Health at Optic Gallery Sahara

While aging is the primary cause of cataracts, taking preventive measures and staying proactive with your eye health can slow their progression. Protecting your eyes, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and scheduling regular eye exams are key steps toward preserving your clear vision for the future.
 

Schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Optic Gallery Sahara and stay ahead of cataracts. Visit our office in Las Vegas, Nevada, or call (702) 876-2020 to book an appointment today.