Cataract has always been common in aged people, but a recent trend has shown that this condition is rising among relatively younger adults. This condition happens when a white-colored film develops on the clear lens causing the vision to blur. In older people, cataract occurs because of age-related damage and the breakdown of protein and fibers. In younger adults, the same reason is responsible for cataract development. But what speeds up this process? But let’s first know about the types of cataracts that you can develop.
Types of Cataract
Cataract that develops in the center of the lens: Also called nuclear cataract, these cataracts cause more near-sightedness. In some people, they result in temporary improvement of reading vision. But with time, the lens gradually turns more dense and yellow, further clouding the vision. The lens may even turn brown with the progression of this condition.
Cataract that develops in the edges of the lens (cortical cataracts): Also called cortical cataract, this begins as a whitish, wedge-shaped opacity on the outer edge of the lens. As it slowly progresses, the opacity extends to the center and obstructs the light passing through the lens.
Cataract that affects the back of the lens: Also called a posterior subcapsular cataract, it starts as a small, opaque area near the back of the lens. This particular type of cataract interferes with your reading vision. They also form halos around light sources at night.
Congenital cataracts or cataracts that are already there during the birth of a child are other types of cataracts. Some people are born with them. It may be attributed to genetics or intrauterine infection, or trauma.
Factors that increase the risk of cataracts in younger adults
Even if your cataract isn’t congenital or genetic, then also you should take measures to avoid cataracts. The risk factors that result in the early development of cataracts are – Type 1 Diabetes, as diabetes is known to aggravate cataract formation. People typically get Type 1 diabetes from a young age. Excessive exposure to sunlight and UV rays are harmful to our eyes, and it aggravates cataracts too. Factors like Smoking, Obesity, High blood pressure, eye injury, eye inflammation, previous eye surgery, and prolonged use of corticosteroid medications speed up cataract formation.
Prevention and Cure
Get your eyes examined regularly. Regular examinations can detect cataract formation and other eye problems at an early stage. Other measures that you can take are given as follows.
Quit smoking as smoking releases an uncountable number of harmful compounds in your bloodstream that can cause eye problems. Manage health problems like diabetes and hypertension. Modify your diet and include vegetables and fruits rich in Vitamin A. Add antioxidants to your diet. Protect your eyes from the sun.