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- What are cataracts?
- Symptoms of cataracts
- Causes of cataracts
- Prevention of cataracts
- Risk factors for cataracts
- Complications of cataracts
- When to see a doctor about cataracts
- Diagnosis of cataracts
- Conventional treatment of cataracts
- Alternative/complementary treatment of cataracts
- Living with cataracts
- Caring for someone with cataracts
It is not yet really known why cataracts develop, although scientists do have some theories about the causes:
- Being over 65 years - deterioration of eyesight is a normal part of aging and so are alterations to the structure of the eyes (especially the lens), which means people who are over 65 years are more at risk of developing cataracts basically due to their age
- Dehydration - some studies show that dehydration, especially if it is caused by excessive sodium intake can cause cataract formation
- Diabetes - secondary cataracts can occur due to the serious condition diabetes which may impair circulation in the body and especially circulation to the eyes and this may cause cataract formation
- Excessive alcohol intake - there have been many studies which have suggested that people who drink alcohol excessively have increased cataract formation than in people who have a low or no consumption of alcohol
- Excessive ultraviolet light exposure - many studies suggest that excessive exposure to ultraviolet light can cause cataract formation. Eye specialists recommend wearing sunglasses for people who are outside all day to prevent cataract formation from ultraviolet light damage to the eyes
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- Genetics - some types of cataracts are congenital, so some babies are born with cataracts and other children develop cataracts in childhood. Some adults may develop cataracts later due to a family history of this eye condition
- Injury to the eye - traumatic cataracts are those which occur as a result of an injury to the eye
- Long term use of medications - certain medications are associated with cataract development, such as corticosteroids (oral, topical, or inhaled steroids) as well as statins (used in heart disease, especially to lower high LDL cholesterol) and phenothiazines (used for serious mental disorders such as schizophrenia)
- Malnutrition - some studies are starting to suggest that a diet deficient in the antioxidant vitamins, especially vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E may be more at risk of developing cataracts. People who are malnutritioned may not be getting adequate nutritional intake of any of the necessary vitamins and minerals
- Obesity - there some evidence about a link between obesity and cataract formation
- Unhealthy diet - people who have an unhealthy diet are unlikely to get adequate intake of of all the antioxidant vitamins and minerals that may prevent cataract formation
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< 2: symptoms 4: prevention > Last reviewed: 2 September 2007 || Last updated: 30 January 2009
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NOTE: Mega doses of any type of vitamin, mineral, amino acid or herbal supplement cannot cure illnesses and in fact can be very dangerous and produce toxic side effects and interfere with medicine you are taking. Always ensure you consult your doctor before taking any type of complementary supplements.
Disclaimer: This guide is not intended to be used for diagnostic or prescriptive purposes. For any treatment or diagnosis of illness, please see your doctor.
