Can cataracts be prevented is a common question.
Cataracts cannot be naturally prevented from forming. Research has shown, however, that lifestyle and health behavior influence when and how early a cataract starts to form. The American Association of Ophthalmology (AAO) overviews several key areas of behavioral practice for aging adults to be aware of that can lower risk for and/or delay development of cataracts.
Protecting your eyes from sunlight is one of the best ways to prevent cataracts. Wear sunglasses that screen out the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) light rays. You may also wear regular eyeglasses that have a clear, anti-UV coating.
Reasons for cataracts include:
- having parents, brothers, sisters, or other family members who have had cataracts.
- having certain medical problems, such as diabetes
- smoking
- having had an eye injury, eye surgery
- radiation treatments
By age 40, adults should visit an eye specialist for a comprehensive eye exam to screen for early-stage cataracts and other age-related eye diseases that are leading causes of blindness and low vision. By age 65, a routine eye exam is recommended every year, in most cases to diagnose cataracts that are progressively clouding the lens.
Patients should discuss with their eye specialist their personal readiness to surgically remove cataract(s) at the point worsening vision has compromised quality of life. Cataracts are a very common reason people lose vision, but they can be treated. You and your ophthalmologist should discuss your cataract symptoms.
Griffin Eye Center, Dr. Neil B. Griffin is one of the leading ophthalmologists in the area and specializes in LASIK and cataract surgery in Myrtle Beach. He is committed to providing world class surgical technology and the most advanced vision diagnostics to the North and South Carolina area. Griffin Eye Center offers the latest in cataract surgery with the most advanced Intra-Ocular Lenses, the only current center in the local area using the new light adjustable lens and the revolutionary ZEPTO® which automates the capsulotomy process in cataract surgery.
The National Consumer Advisory Board named Dr. Griffin one of America’s Best Physicians 2023. He has also received over 23 multiple local distinctions, including “Best Laser Eye Surgeon” and “Best Ophthalmologist”. He is board certified, and fellowship trained in cornea and external eye disease.
Visit griffineyecenter.com to learn more or call (843) 449-6414 for consultation.