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As you get older, you may notice that your vision isn’t as sharp as it used to be. Beyond needing a stronger prescription, you might find that colors appear less vibrant or that fine details are shrouded in cloudiness.
These could be signs of a cataract, a common eye condition that affects nearly 25 million people in the US. Cataracts can naturally form as you age, but your current lifestyle could make you more susceptible to them later on.
According to Dr. Kashyap Kansupada, a CEENTA cataract surgeon who practices at our Huntersville and Belmont offices, “The lens in your eye contains proteins that gradually break down over time primarily due to sunlight exposure. Eventually, these deposits clump together to form a cataract.”
Beyond its milky white or yellowish hue, common symptoms of cataracts include:
Although cataracts often develop with age from cumulative sun exposure, several other risk factors can hasten their formation:
Diabetes affects blood sugar levels, which can alter the structure of the lens in your eyes. The lens may swell or experience oxidative stress, both of which contribute to cloudiness or a change in your prescription.
Cigar and cigarette smoke contain harsh chemicals that can also damage the lens. Vape and e-cigarette users are also at risk, as these methods have free radicals that can inflame the eyes.
Heavy alcohol consumption has been linked to cataract development due to its damaging effects on the lens.
Exposure to ultraviolet light without proper eye protection, such as sunglasses, can accelerate cataract formation.
Those with a family history of cataracts are also more prone to the condition. Hereditary traits that affect the proteins in the eye or lens metabolism are contributing factors.
Fortunately, cataracts can be surgically removed and replaced with a clear, new lens implant in a quick procedure with minimal downtime. Your surgeon can recommend an artificial lens implant that may also restore your range of vision—potentially eliminating the need for glasses or contacts.
At CEENTA, we offer both traditional and laser-assisted cataract surgery along with premium lens options to meet the needs of all of our patients in the Carolinas. To find out if you’re a candidate for cataract surgery at CEENTA, schedule your consultation with Dr. Kansupada online or through myCEENTAchart.
This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your doctor.
See why correcting your astigmatism during your cataract surgery can be one of your best choices at CEENTA.
Find out why premium IOLs can make a difference for your cataract surgery with surgeon Kashyap Kansupada, MD, FACS.
Should you be concerned about hazy vision after cataract surgery? Learn more from CEENTA cataract surgeon Joshua Rheinbolt, MD.
