Experts reveal how to prevent cataract

A principal Optometrist at Chukwuemeka Odimegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Dr Emma Ezejiegu, has encouraged that regular medical checkup is a way of checkmating cataract.

Dr. Ezejiegu, who was speaking with newsmen, explained that most cases of cataract come as result of genetic makeup, poorly managed medical conditions like diabetes, hypertension, trauma, aging and others. 

According to him, cataract means opacity of the crystalline lens which comes as a consequence of protein accumulation, and characterised by an opaque film on the lens that becomes more obvious over time.

He further explained, “This could be avoided through a routine eye check. An inherited genetic disorder can equally increase the risk of cataract. Signs of the aliment included clouded vision, blurred vision, and increasing difficulty with vision at night and sensitivity to light and glare.”

 “When seeing halos around lights and frequent changing in eyeglasses or contact lens becomes more pronounce, is a cause to worry. The only effective way to treat cataract is to surgically replace the damaged natural lens with an artificial Lens implant which can be done with the traditional method or laser assisted means,” he stated.

Taking a closer look at this medical condition, there are a number tips that one can do to prevent having Cataract, let’s take look.

Modify your diet

A consistently healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables, oily fish and whole grains may result in a decreased risk of cataracts. Antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals such as vitamins A, C and E, lutein, zeaxanthin and omega 3 fatty acids may also reduce the risk of cataract progression. As is true for the rest of the body, a healthy, balanced diet will result in healthy eyes.

Protect yourself from Ultraviolet (UV) radiation

Shielding your eyes from harmful UV radiation is imperative. A wide-brimmed hat, scarf or dupatta can shield your eyes from the harmful rays in the sun. In addition to this, polarized sunglasses, photochromatic lenses and UV blocking contact lenses may be used to prevent UV induced damage to the eye. UV radiation is known to increase the risk of both cataract, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Don’t smoking

Smoking is also associated with an increase in the risk of both, cataract and AMD, just like UV radiation. It is because the adverse effects of both are caused by the release of free radicals in the body. Smoking increases the risk of cataract formation and progression almost three times.

Control your blood sugar

Increased blood sugar results in cataract formation. In fact, the average age at which people with diabetes with poor sugar control present with cataract is much lower than that of the average population. It is therefore vital to ensure proper glycemic control. In addition, high blood sugars also predispose one to a potential sight-threatening condition called diabetic retinopathy in which new blood vessels are formed on the light-sensitive retina. These new blood vessels tend to leak both fluid and blood, resulting in retinal swelling and hemorrhages.

Avoid trauma

Traumatic cataract has no age predilection, that is, trauma at any age can result in the formation and progression of cataract. It is therefore essential to avoid eye injuries by taking appropriate preventive measures. The most important thing is to use protective eyewear, including glasses and eye shields, to prevent eye injuries in hazardous situations at work and play.

Avoid unnecessary use of steroids

Steroids are potentially life-saving drugs, but their indiscriminate and rampant use has led to several problems. In India, even chemists prescribe steroids with little regard for their harmful effects. Also, people tend to self-medicate. Steroids must be taken only on medical advice, and under strict medical supervision. In fact, you must discuss with your doctor the option of using steroid-sparing drugs for your ailment, whenever possible.

Visit your eye doctor

Back to where we started from, regular visit to your eye doctor cannot be overemphasize, even if you have no symptoms, you must schedule an eye examination at regular intervals, especially after forty years of age. Routine visits allow your doctor to look for signs of cataract, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and other vision disorders. This means that early intervention can be instituted, and your eye health can be managed better.

At the end of the day, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is the best option of staying healthy.