Understanding Cataracts: Symptoms, Causes, and Prevention

Caring for your eyes means more than just finding the right pair of frames, it’s also about understanding the changes your vision may go through over time. One of the most common age-related eye conditions is cataracts, a gradual clouding of the eye’s natural lens. Though cataracts are widespread, they’re also treatable and, in many cases, preventable.

In this post, we’re breaking down the basics: what cataracts are, how to spot them, what causes them, and how to protect your eyes for the long term.

What Are Cataracts?

Cataracts occur when the normally clear lens inside your eye becomes cloudy. This cloudiness can block or distort the light that enters your eye, leading to blurry, hazy, or dim vision. Cataracts typically develop slowly and are most common in people over 60, though they can occur earlier due to injury, genetics, or other health conditions.

Symptoms to Watch Out For

Cataracts often start small and may not impact your vision right away. But over time, you may begin to notice:

• Blurry or foggy vision
• Increased sensitivity to light or glare
• Faded or yellowed colors
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Halos around lights
• Frequent changes in your glasses prescription
  

If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it’s a good idea to schedule an eye exam to rule out cataracts or other vision issues.

What Causes Cataracts?

Several factors can contribute to the development of cataracts. These include:

• Aging (the most common cause)
• Exposure to UV radiation from sunlight
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Prolonged use of certain medications, like steroids
• Eye injuries or previous surgeries
• Family history of cataracts
  

 

Can Cataracts Be Prevented?

While not all cataracts can be avoided, the good news is that there are lifestyle choices and habits that can help reduce your risk:

1. Wear UV-Protective Eyewear

Sunlight is a major factor in cataract development. Protect your eyes with lenses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. At Bôhten, our optical and sun frames offer UV protection without compromising on style.

2. Eat a Vision-Friendly Diet

Foods rich in antioxidants like leafy greens, carrots, citrus fruits, and berries can support long-term eye health by protecting your lens from oxidative damage.

3. Quit Smoking

Smoking increases your risk for a number of eye conditions, including cataracts. Quitting is one of the best things you can do for your overall health and your vision.

4. Control Chronic Conditions

Keep diabetes, high blood pressure, and other chronic health issues under control, as these can accelerate cataract formation.

5. Stay on Top of Eye Exams

Routine eye exams can detect early signs of cataracts and other eye conditions. Early detection means early intervention.

A Clearer Future

Cataracts are a natural part of the aging process, but they don’t have to interfere with your quality of life. With the right care, early detection, and protection, you can maintain healthy vision well into the future.

At Bôhten, we believe in empowering you with the knowledge and tools you need to protect your eyes because good vision is about more than just what you see. It’s about how clearly you experience life.

Looking for stylish frames with UV protection and prescription-ready lenses?

Check out our full line of optical eyewear here.