Cataracts: The Causes And Symptoms

Obesity

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Type two diabetes increases the risk of cataracts, and as obesity is one of the leading causes of type two diabetes, it is important to develop healthy lifestyle habits early in life to preserve eye health. The antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin have been shown to protect eye health. They also help promote a healthy weight by naturally detoxifying free radicals in the body. Foods high in lutein and zeaxanthin are spinach, orange pepper, kale, and egg yolks. Individuals looking to control their weight to prevent cataracts should also look to exercising on a regular basis in addition to making improvements in their diet.

Symptoms

Photo Credit: DrSamBerne

Symptoms of cataracts may take years to develop fully, though the condition begins with a gradual clouding of the eye lens. Symptoms may develop in both eyes but with various degrees. Cataracts may cause cloudy, misty, or otherwise blurry vision that is especially noticeable at night when it is dark. An individual with cataracts may also see small dots or specks floating in the air that blur their field of vision. Cataracts may sometimes cause impaired vision while there is a glare, such as on a computer screen in the sun, or very bright light.

Individuals with cataracts may experience a dulling of colors and difficulty reading. Eventually, reading may become impossible for affected individuals as their ability to focus diminishes. An increased need to use glass more often might be a sign of cataracts as well. But sometimes, even when glasses are used more, a patient's eyesight does not improve. An individual dealing with cataracts may also see a halo or ring around bright lights such as street lights or headlights of cars. They may also deal with double vision in one eye.

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