What Can I Do To Prevent Cataracts At Home?

Cataracts are known to cause eye problems such as cloudy or blurry vision. While cataracts cannot be avoided entirely, there are ways to reduce your risk of developing this condition in the future.

Board-certified ophthalmologist Dr. Stephen Wilmarth can provide information and resources about how to prevent cataracts during a comprehensive eye exam in Roseville, CA. Read the following tips and call Wilmarth Eye and Laser Center today to schedule an appointment.

What causes cataracts?

Cataracts occur when the proteins in our lens break down and prevent light from passing through. This causes the lens to become cloudy, resulting in blurry or dim vision. Double vision is possible, and colors may appear faded as well. While cataract symptoms develop slowly and painlessly over time, patients could experience vision loss or blindness when left untreated for too long.

Cataracts may be brought about by:

• Genetics: If your parents or grandparents had cataracts, you are more likely to develop them.

• Age: Cataracts are common among adults over the age of 60.

• UV exposure: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can damage the proteins in our eyes, increasing your risk of cataracts.

• Smoking: Prolonged tobacco use has been linked to cataracts and other vision problems.

• Diet: A poor diet lacking essential vitamins and minerals can lead to cataract formation.

How do you prevent cataracts at home?

A trained ophthalmologist, like Dr. Wilmarth, knows how to diagnose and treat cataracts long before they cause cloudy vision or vision loss. Patients in Roseville, CA are encouraged to attend yearly eye exams so that any changes in their vision can be caught early.

There are ways you can help prevent cataracts by making small but impactful lifestyle changes at home. These may include:

• Wear sunglasses: Wear sunglasses that block out 99% of UV rays when spending any amount of time outdoors. Keep in mind that ultraviolet light can also penetrate through clouds, so sunglasses are important even on overcast days.

• Stop smoking: Cigarettes and other tobacco products lead to a number of vision-related conditions. Now is the time to quit for the sake of your health.

• Eat a balanced diet: Some nutrients have been shown to reduce your risk of cataracts. A well-balanced diet can keep your eyes healthy. Be sure to eat plenty of fruits and leafy green vegetables.

Dr. Wilmarth can provide additional personalized tips for cataract prevention during a yearly eye exam.

How do you diagnose cataracts?

Dr. Wilmarth will conduct comprehensive tests to check for cataracts. This may include a retinal exam, where we use drops to dilate the pupils and examine the retina. Wilmarth Eye and Laser Center is proud to have advanced tools and technologies that provide accurate results. If we discover cataracts, we will develop a treatment plan to help you regain clear vision.

You deserve healthy eyes free from cataracts

Cloudy vision caused by cataracts can make daily activities difficult. Learn more about cataracts and how to prevent them by calling Wilmarth Eye and Laser Center in Roseville, CA. Board-certified ophthalmologist Dr. Stephen Wilmarth and our team of cataract specialists can help you have healthy eyes for life.