Cataracts are caused by an accumulation of damaged proteins in the eye, namely the cornea, which eventually sight because they are opaque and do not allow light to pass easily. It is an accumulation that occurs in most cases over the years and eventually leave us a view of poor quality, because we can barely distinguish objects clearly.

Over the years, our body undergoes many changes and many eventually worsen our health. An example are the falls that many people suffer when they reach adulthood. It is a problem that worsens our quality of life, but it can be prevented.

Despite this we know that cataracts can be prevented by tracking healthy habits. But first we have to know the reasons that make our body to develop the disease or disorder remains our vision. In most cases cataracts occur with the passage of time and accumulation of these proteins, but other reasons.

Symptoms of cataracts

Gradually, as the cataract progresses, you may have symptoms such as:

• Blurred or hazy vision painless;
• Greater difficulty seeing at night or in low light;
• Sensitivity to light and glare;
• Presence of halos around lights;
• faded or yellowed colors;
• The need to use a brighter light for reading and other activities;
• Frequent changes in prescribing glasses or contact lenses; or
• Double vision in one eye

Types of cataracts

Cataracts are usually associated with age, usually affecting people over 60 years, however, can also occur in children. Let’s look at the different causes that can cause cataracts:

Congenital cataracts

Falls are displayed in the newborn soon after birth. They are not linked to age, and its source type:

Genetic: are linked to autosomal dominant genes. This means that it is only necessary for a parent to transmit the gene for this to manifest, which increases the probability of occurrence of the disease in the neonate from a family where one parent has the gene to 50%.

Infectious: certain infections suffered by the mother during pregnancy can cause the appearance of visual disorders in the fetus, including congenital cataracts you. One such disease is larubéola.

Metabolic: galactosemia, diabetes, etc.

In pediatric patients the diagnosis and early treatment, because cataracts delay the correct development of vision and can lead to amblyopia (lazy eye) is especially important.

Adult cataracts

• Immature Cataracts are cataracts that come with age, characterized in that the lens still retains its transparency in certain areas.
• Mature Falls: as immature cataracts occur with age and are characterized by the lens has completely lost its transparency.
• Hypermature Cataracts are the maximum state of chronicity of the falls appeared with age. Lens, besides having completely lost its transparency, has a liquid surface, which is filtered through the capsule of the eye, and may cause inflammation of other structures of the eye.

Causes of Cataracts

The causative factors of cataracts in adults are varied and different for each person:

• Environmental factors: smoking, excessive exposure to ultraviolet light or other aggressive radiation and ocular trauma (blows to the eyes) are factors closely linked to cataracts.
• Metabolic factors: are mainly the presence of diabetes in the subject and low levels of serum calcium. They are also associated with other metabolic and inflammatory disorders.
• medicated factors: it has found a direct relationship with the use of certain drugs, highlighting markedly corticosteroids (cortisone and its derivatives).
• idiopathic factors: a certain percentage of patients develop cataracts do not meet the disclosure requirements described above, still unknown the real reason for his appearance.

Four ways to prevent cataracts at any age

1. Keep vices under control

It’s no secret that cigarettes cause many risks to their health and that of those around him. But did you know that also affect the health of your sight? “Research indicates that smoking increases your chances of developing cataracts,” says Dr. Vivek Jain, MD, a VSP doctor at Beach Eye Care in Virginia Beach, VA. Then, if you need another reason to quit smoking, think about the future of their sight.

Do you plan to go to the “happy hour” this week? Just remember to enjoy your beer, wine or cocktails in moderation. Like cigarettes, excessive alcohol consumption can mean several health risks, among which there is a greater chance of developing cataracts.

2. Healthy food

Studies indicate that people with diabetes have a higher risk of developing cataracts. That is why maintaining a healthy level of blood sugar is so important for both your overall health and the health of their sight.

But a healthy diet should be a priority for everyone. “We always encourage our patients to eat lots of leafy vegetables,” says Dr. Jain. “Vitamin supplements are also an excellent way to compensate those that do not incorporate nutrients in sufficient quantities in our diet.” Incorporate foods rich in antioxidants such as beta carotene, selenium and vitamins C and E may also help prevent the development of cataracts.

3. Protect your eyes from the sun

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: protect your sight from UV rays and your eyes will thank you! “Ultraviolet rays can accelerate cataract formation,” says Dr. Jain, “even in young patients.”

To reduce exposure, wear broad-brimmed hats when outdoors and always have sun glasses hand with protection against UVA / UVB, regardless of the season. If you need a new pair of sunglasses, contact Eyeconic where it can be tested hundreds of eyeglass frames virtually.

4. Visit your doctor eyecare

Even if your view is clear and is healthy, prioritize the appointment for their annual eye exams. Routine visits allow the professional eye care for signs of cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration and other eye diseases. Early detection can save your sight!

Foods that help prevent cataracts

While it is true that the solution to this problem is surgery, the evolution of the falls can be prevented consume these foods.

Antioxidants. We must choose those rich in antioxidants, such as prevention and eye reinforcement. These foods are carrots, mango, melon, red pepper, Brussels sprouts, peanuts, walnuts, sunflower seeds and olive oil.

Vitamin C also help prevent cataracts foods that provide vitamin C, which help fight oxidation and aging. These are: oranges, lemons, grapefruit, kiwis, leafy greens, parsley and tomatoes, among others.

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Vitamin E. Foods containing vitamin E will also be useful in preventing cataracts. Like vitamin C, this nutrient acts against aging. Here are sunflower seeds, almonds, hazelnuts, wheat germ oil, sunflower, broccoli, peanuts and whole grains.

Reboflavina (vitamin B2). Finally, do not forget to consume foods rich in riboflavin (whole milk and cereals), a substance that helps metabolize sugar.

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