If you are worried about getting cataracts of the eye, you should learn the risk factors associated with this condition. Some people are more likely than others to get it, so it is helpful to find out if you are at-risk or if you are not likely to be affected. Also, you should be aware of the fact that though this is typically known for being age-related, you can get cataracts of the eye even when you are middle-aged.
When Are You Most At-Risk?
Most people assume that you must be over age 60 to get cataracts of the eye, and while it does occur most often in this age group, you should know that you can get this condition even at age 40. The main reason that this is not common knowledge is that most people’s vision is not affected by cataracts at this age because they are small. However, there are always exceptions to this rule.
Aside from advancing age, the following are factors that put people at-risk for cataracts of the eye:
- Smoking and regular use of alcohol
- Excessive sunlight exposure at any age
- Some medical conditions, including diabetes
- Air pollution
- Exposure to radiation
Preventing Cataracts
Knowing the main risk factors for cataracts of the eye can give you an idea of how to prevent them, since some of the risks are avoidable. For example, you can avoid excessive sunlight exposure by wearing hats with wide brims and sunglasses to shield your eyes. Stopping habits like smoking and excessive drinking can also lower your risk of developing cataracts of the eye.
You can also add certain habits to your lifestyle in order to reduce your risk of cataracts. Making sure to have good nutrition, such as the ingestion of fruit and leafy green vegetables, can help. Of course, regular eye exams can help you stay on top of your eye health so that you can detect and treat cataracts of the eye early.