Cataracts are among the most common eye conditions. This happens to all older adults, they happen when the normally clear lens of the eye turns cloudy.

As light needs to pass through this lens for us to see, the cloudiness leads to blurry vision. Left untreated, a cataract may even result in blindness.

This is why understanding the causes of cataracts is essential as one ages. When you know the potential causes and risk factors for the condition, we understand how the condition develops, and why we need to do something about it.

Common causes of cataracts

1. Ageing

Age is the most significant factor of all eye cataract causes. Most people beyond the age of 50 have cataracts and it just depends on the extent of cataracts.

The link between cataracts and ageing happens due to the natural breakdown of proteins over time. At a certain age, the proteins in the lens of the eye deteriorate and clump together.

The process of their formation can begin as early as 40 years of age, though patients may only begin to notice the symptoms decades later – often in their 60s. By that time the cataracts have usually often grown significant enough to cause problems to the patient’s vision.

2. UV exposure 

UV rays are also capable of causing the proteins in the lens to break down. The rays damage them and accelerate the natural deterioration that happens over time.

Using UV-blocking glasses does protect the eyes from the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun, and potentially delay the development of certain conditions within the eye.

A note worth providing here is that sunglasses are still more effective than simply staying in the shade when outdoors. Many people seem to think that as long as they stay in the shaded areas, their eyes are protected.

However, light reflects and bounces off surfaces, and enough UV can still reflect off walls and even the ground to harm your eyes.

3. Medical conditions

Certain medical conditions increase the risk of developing cataracts at a younger age. Once again, everyone will eventually develop cataracts, but some medical conditions can result in people developing them at a younger age. These include Diabetes Mellitus, atopic dermatitis or eczema, and even certain metabolic diseases.

Therefore, it is important to still have your eyes checked if you are experiencing blurring of vision, even though you’re of a younger age and think that cataracts should not be afflicting you yet.

4. Trauma to the eye

Eye injuries are also capable of leading to cataract formation. Blunt trauma, for example, being hit by a shuttlecock or being accidentally elbowed by someone, can sometimes lead to earlier cataract formation.

It is worth noting, however, that cataract formation following trauma is not always immediate. Some have seen cataracts develop very soon after the injury. Others have seen them appear only years later.

Penetrating trauma, from a foreign body that has entered the eye, is much more devastating. If it hits the lens, cataract formation is almost immediate. In addition, there can potentially be extensive intraocular injury which will need urgent surgery.

Risk factors to consider 

The most important thing to remember is that anyone can develop cataracts. While we stated that age often leads to it, for instance, even people in their 20s can get a cataract. 

That being said, our explanation of the causes of cataracts indicates that some are simply more likely than others to get the problem. Here is a summary of risk factors that may help you quickly determine your likelihood of developing a cataract:

• Age: Those over 60 have the highest risk of developing cataracts.
• Family history: A family history of cataracts appears to predispose most people to developing them later on.
• Gender: Women appear to be more likely to develop cataracts than men, perhaps due to menopausal hormone changes.
• Health conditions: Diabetics and others suffering from chronic conditions seem more likely to develop the issue.
• Medication: Those using certain medications (corticosteroids, for example) long-term appear to be more likely to get cataracts than others.

Get screened for cataracts or let us treat them

Cataracts are common but treatable and in some ways, potentially preventable. Dr Leslie Ang has over a decade of experience in cataract surgery and also further specializes in

complex cataract surgeries.

With the right approach, it is possible to treat cataracts before they affect your life adversely. To learn more about both diagnosis and treatment, reach out to us today. You can book an appointment for a cataract or eye screening with us.