Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness all over the world. They result in clouded lenses which are easily treated in their early stages and can be treated with surgery if you qualify for the procedure. Despite the fact that they’re so common, it’s still important to understand what can cause cataracts so you know what to expect if you develop them.

The most common cause of cataracts is aging, with half of Americans having some type of cataract by the age of 75. Genetics can also play an important role if you have a family history of the condition. Other causes can be controlled or managed, such as smoking, UV exposure, and diabetes. One surprising cause of cataracts is eye injuries, which can result in the development of cataracts much earlier than normal. 

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The new year brings with it new hopes and new goals. For many people, this involves working on health and wellness goals. This year, make sure to include good habits that support eye health, as well as, overall wellness!

According to the University of Michigan Kellog Eye Center, anyone’s risk of developing cataracts is pretty high. Over 95% of people who are 65 and older have a cataract. What’s more, half of those between the ages of 75 and 85 have experienced some loss of vision due to this condition.

To better understand cataracts, we’ll look at:

• Other risk factors for cataracts
• What are cataracts?
• Cataract symptoms
• Diagnosing cataracts
• Treatment of cataracts

While your chances of developing cataracts are high, there’s no reason to panic. Some common myths about cataracts include that they result from straining your eyes, or that they can spread from one eye to the other. The truth is that cataracts are a natural part of aging and develop slowly over time. This means that they can be caught early on using dilated eye exams. Read more