Cataracts are cloudy areas that form on the lens of the eye, making vision blurry, hazy, or less colorful. Most cataracts develop due to natural changes in the eye as a person ages, causing the proteins in the lens to break down and clump together. Other factors that can increase the risk of developing cataracts include:
- Environmental factors: too much time in sunlight, smoking
- Medical conditions: diabetes, certain diuretic use, certain major tranquilizers, radiation treatment
- Genetic factors: family history of cataracts, genetic mutations
Cataracts can also be caused by past eye surgery or injury, as well as long-term use of steroid medicines. If you are worried about your risk of developing cataracts, talk to your doctor about steps you can take to lower your risk.
