What is a Cataract?
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Behind the cornea and the pupil and the iris of your beautiful eye is the lens. The lens is important to your vision because light files through the lens carrying the images in a sharp line (upside-down) to the retina where it is transformed into electrical impulses passed through the optical nerve to the brain.
A Cataract is not a “film over the eye,” it is simply, the clouding of the lens.
Where did my Cataract Come From?
There are different types of Cataracts but the same clouding of the lens develops from each. Cataracts are most often caused by aging- called senile Cataracts, but injuries to the eye, certain diseases, conditions of the eye and body and heredity or birth defects- called congenital Cataracts can also cause the clear lens to change to a cloudy disc that needs to have Cataract Surgery.
While we know what a Cataract is, we are only just beginning to understand what causes them to develop. Several potential causes have been identified, however. Ophthalmologist now agree that lifestyle and environmental factors can play a part in the clouding of our eyes. Avoiding certain situations may improve your overall eye health.
Keep out of the sun! Long term exposure to UVA or UVB rays can cause changes in pigment in the eyes. Wear sunglasses and a floppy hat! Take antioxidants to counteract free radicals and stop their cell death. Know the side effects of medications as simple as long-term aspirin or oral steroids. More research is needed to further connect smoking and alcohol abuse with Cataracts, while it is widely accepted that some medical conditions such as diabetes, glaucoma and metabolic disorders carry a high risk of Cataracts. Talk to your Florida doctor. An open line of communication with your medical professionals is the best defense to know if you need Cataract Surgery.
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