The eye’s natural lens refracts light rays to help us see clearly. When we are young, the lens is clear, but as we age, it can become cloudy. When the lens begins to cloud, vision can become blurry, hazy, or discolored. Typically, this occurrence is referred to as the development of cataracts.
Some common symptoms of cataracts include:
- Blurred vision
- Double vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Poor night vision/glare
- Colors appearing faded or yellowish
Causes of Cataracts
Cataracts typically occur as a result of aging. As we get older, the proteins in the eye’s lens begin to break down, causing it to become cloudy. Visible cloudiness usually occurs after age 60, but they may appear sooner or later in life.
Cataracts may also be hereditary. If you have family members with cataracts, you are more likely to develop them as you get older.
Diabetes, eye injuries, radiation treatments, medications, and side effects of eye surgeries can also cause the development of cataracts. It’s also essential to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays as prolonged exposure can cause early cataracts.
