A cataract is an eye disorder that is characterized by a clouding of the eye lens. This can in turn cause blindness. In fact, eye cataract is one of the major causes of vision loss in the US. Although there are no proven ways to prevent this disorder, there are some tips which can help lower the chance of getting it. The following are the steps that can help lower the possibility of getting a cataract:
1. Regular eye check-up
Cataracts mostly attack people of the age between 40 to 50. So, if you are in this age bracket, regular eye check-up is important. If this disorder is detected earlier, preventing further complications will be easier. Visiting an optician once or twice a year can help to prevent cataracts. In addition to that, an optician will also help detect other eye problems like glaucoma and other eye infections.
2. Avoid smoking
If you are a non-smoker, don’t even think of trying it but if you are already a smoker, just quit from it. Smoking is very dangerous and is known to cause deadly diseases. On the other hand, smoking can cause cataracts. According to research a higher percentage of smokers are affected by cataracts compared to non-smokers. In fact, smoking doubles your chance of acquiring this disease.
3. Eat a balanced diet
Eating healthy and nutritious foods can help to prevent cataracts in great ways. For instance, regular intake of foods rich in antioxidants is known to protect the eye. This includes food that contains vitamin C, vitamin E, carotene and selenium. Major sources of vitamin C are fruits, tomatoes, potatoes and broccoli among others. On the other hand, some foods that contain vitamin E are vegetable oils, nuts and, almond among many others.
4. Control your blood sugar
Controlling the blood sugar level is not only important for your general body health but it is also good for your eye health. If you are diabetic, it is advisable to keep your blood sugar under control. Diabetic people are always at a higher risk of developing this disease. When the blood sugar of your body is higher than normal, your eye lens will start swelling up. This can, in turn, prevent your eyes from seeing clearly.
5. Protect your from the sun
Exposing your eyes directly to the sun is not healthy. The sun contains ultraviolet light which can damage the protein in your eyes. It is thus advisable to avoid direct exposure to the sun. This can be done by putting on sunglasses. The sunglasses should contain ultraviolet protection and fits your face perfectly. If you’re looking for high-quality replacement lenses with UV protection, we suggest that you visit Seek Optics for some affordable deals.
6. Avoid long-term use of corticosteroid medication
When corticosteroids are used for a long time, they might increase the risk cataracts attack. It is thus advisable to ask for medical advice from the doctor before you start using any drugs. Your doctor will tell you whether the drugs have a long-term effect or not.
The above are some of the ways on how to prevent cataracts. As we have seen earlier, cataracts cannot be prevented, but the above tips will help lower the risk factor. Since your health is more important, taking care of yourself can help to prevent this disease.