Cataract in the elderly is increasing day by day. And it makes people’s lives difficult. Though you can now find treatment for cataracts, you still can’t get rid of the difficulties. So, let’s find out how to prevent Cataract in elderly (ต้อกระจก ใน ผู้ สูงอายุ, which is the term in Thai).
What Are Cataracts?
A cataract is a disease that clouds the clear eyes lens and reduces the visibility day by day. The cataract fogged up the eye lens window. People won’t understand the problem at first, as it develops slowly, but later on, they would have problems driving or reading the newspaper. And the eye will have distorted colours. This disease is most generally seen in people around 40-50 years.
What Are The Causes Of Cataracts?
Cataracts can be caused by many things, mainly in older adults. So, here are some reasons why cataracts occur.
Ultraviolet Light: People generally overlook this problem. But when your eyes are exposed to UVA and UVB sunlight day after day, it harms your eyes, thus causing cataracts.
Smoking: We know that smoking cigarette is harmful to your health. The tobacco in cigarettes is full of harmful toxins, affecting the blood vessels. Hence, regular intake of smoking can increase the chances of cataracts.
Disease: Some physical conditions increase the risk of cataracts, such as Diabetes, galactosemia, Wilson’s disease etc. You need to take care of your physical fitness to avoid further health issues.
Eye Injury: When you experience any eye Injury or go through a severe operation. These can cause cataracts in your eyes. The trauma or damage caused by the injury is very harmful to your eyes.
Medication Side-effects: Some medications like steroids or high dose medicines sometimes don’t suit your health. Thus, it may cause cataracts.
Is It Preventable?
Cataracts are preventable. But for that, you need to maintain some instructions to avoid any cataract symptoms. However, it can’t be guaranteed as cataract occurs due to age-related macular degeneration.
To Prevent Cataracts:
- Avoid direct exposure to the sun. For your eyes, the UV rays are harmful. If you need to go out, wear sunglasses or a hat.
- Don’t smoke, as it can trigger the chances of cataracts.
- If you are using a computer or phone for too long, remember to give rest to your eyes periodically.
- Even though you don’t have eye power, you can consider using computer glasses.
- Cataract in elderly are the most common; to prevent them, they have to undergo an eye examination every year.
- Maintain a healthy diet, fruits and vegetables as many as possible.
Conclusion
Cataracts are a troublesome disease. Fortunately, now doctors have advanced treatment for cataracts, which will help you get back to your old self. But still remember to take precautions, maintain a healthy diet and take care of yourself.
