Cataracts are a side effect of aging. There is no guaranteed way to avoid getting them.
Cataract surgery is a straightforward and effective procedure. It can restore your vision after cataracts have impaired it.
But you shouldn’t give up on working to prevent cataracts. They may not be totally avoidable, and cataract surgery can give you your vision back.
But, it’s still worthwhile to work to reduce your chances of getting them. Keep reading to learn if diet and exercise can reduce your chances of developing cataracts.
Can You Prevent Cataracts?
As with other health problems, you can lower the risk of early cataract development with healthy lifestyle habits. There are a few things that you can manage with links to cataract development.
You can limit the impacts of these lifestyle habits and health conditions. By doing so, you may be able to reduce your chances of developing cataracts early or altogether.
Smoking
It can be hard to quit smoking, but you must do it for the sake of your health. Talk with your doctor to get help stopping. Medication and counseling can be a great aid if you are looking to quit.
Diabetes
Managing diabetes and keeping your blood sugar under control is vital to your health. Your eye health is no exception to this rule.
High blood sugar can contribute to cataracts and damage your eyes in various other ways. Diet and exercise are helpful to control your glucose levels. Also, be sure to follow your doctor’s orders and use your medications.
Nutrition
Healthy eyes need a balanced diet. Eat foods high in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, like fruits and green vegetables, for healthy eyes. Consult your doctor to find out what your diet needs.
UV light
Sunlight has many excellent benefits and is necessary for a healthy body. But, too much sunlight can cause more harm than good.
UV light damages the interior structures of your eyes and can lead to various problems, including cataracts. Wear sunglasses when outdoors, and be sure they are 100% protected against UV light.
Alcohol Consumption
Drinking alcohol in reasonable doses is fine on occasion. But it is harmful to your body to drink excessively. Limiting your drinking can improve your health and lower your risk of cataracts.
What is Cataract Surgery Like?
Even after following all the previous prevention strategies, you could develop cataracts. When it’s time to remove them, you will need to undergo cataract surgery.
Cataract surgery removes the entire lens that the cataract is in. It replaces your natural lens with an intraocular lens or IOL.
Before the procedure, you and your eye doctor will select the best IOL for you. This is a big decision because the IOL you choose will determine the capability of your eyesight.
During the procedure, your eyes are numb from anesthetic eye drops. After the numbing drops take effect, your surgeon begins by making an incision in your cornea.
Next, they insert a special probe that breaks your natural lens into smaller pieces. These smaller pieces allow your surgeon to remove the lens with gentle suction.
When the lens is out, your pre-selected IOL replaces your natural lens. The opening is then closed, and your recovery begins immediately.
Cataracts are a normal part of life, and your eye doctor can help you manage them. Schedule a cataract screening at Stahl Eyecare Experts in Manhattan, NY, to get help with yours!
