Developing this eye condition is more common than you think. Here’s why, according to an expert.
As we age, our bodies naturally start to develop different aches, pains, and ailments, from stiff knees to fuzzy memory. One of the common body parts people don’t tend to think about is what happens to their eyes as they get older.
Eye Doctor Reveals the Truth About Cataracts
In a trending video with more than 140,000 views, eye doctor Heather Ogoke (@_seeheather) shares what you really need to know about cataracts. “I’m going to tell you guys something that your eye doctor probably has never told you before,” Ogoke says. “Everybody gets cataracts,” she claims. Although this knowledge may come as a shock, Ogoke emphasizes it as a normal part of aging.
The most common type of cataracts is caused by exposure to UV rays from the sun. Over time, UV exposure contributes to the degradation of the proteins in your eye’s lens, leading to cloudiness and thickening that affects your vision, especially at night. Moreover, it can also inhibit color appreciation, making the world appear less vivid.
To combat this inevitable part of aging, Ogoke advises wearing sunglasses as often as possible, particularly those with 100% UV protection or labeled UV400. This simple measure can protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.
Understanding the Aging Process and Eye Health
Ogoke's words resonate with the findings from the National Eye Institute (NEI), which reveals that nearly half of all Americans aged 80 or older have cataracts or will require surgery to remove them. The risk increases with age, but factors like smoking, poor diet, and certain health conditions (such as diabetes and high blood pressure) can elevate susceptibility.
She states, “Cataracts are like birthdays. Everybody gets them if you live long enough.” Her experience shows that she tends to see patients in their 70s and 80s coming in for cataract surgery. However, surgery is not the immediate answer; it only becomes necessary when vision deterioration reaches a critical point impacting daily activities.
Preventative Measures You Can Take
To help maintain good eye health and mitigate the effects of cataracts, consider these practical tips and lifestyle choices
- Wear sunglasses: Choose sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection or are labeled UV400. Brands like Ray-Ban or Prada offer stylish options that can be both fashionable and protective.
- Use a wide-brimmed hat: Hats provide additional shielding from direct sunlight.
- Quit smoking: Smoking is linked to various health issues, including cataracts.
- Eat a healthy diet: Incorporate leafy greens and colorful fruits into your meals since they are rich in antioxidants that promote eye health.
- Regular eye check-ups: These help monitor your eye condition and manage any early signs of cataracts through corrective lenses.
Managing Cataracts Effectively
The only definitive treatment for cataracts is surgery, but most individuals don’t need to undergo it immediately. Initially, cataracts can be managed with a new glasses or contact lens prescription. Utilizing brighter lights at home or employing a magnifying glass can help enhance vision.
Dr. Ogoke reassures patients by stating, “It’s such a safe and commonly performed procedure that patients leave very satisfied.” For those experiencing a decline in their ability to drive or carry out daily tasks, surgery will significantly improve their quality of life.
Comments on social media reflect the growing awareness about eye health: “Wow, now I have an excuse to buy these Prada sunglasses,” one user quipped. Others shared their experiences, relating to how long they have had protection in place for their eyes, underscoring the importance of preventive measures.
As Dr. Ogoke puts it, “Everybody gets cataracts, but not everybody needs surgery for it,” highlighting the significance of monitoring eye health and taking actionable steps to combat the potential impact of aging on vision.
Making proactive choices today can help prolong clear vision tomorrow. Look for affordable, 100% UV-protective sunglasses, consider routine eye exams, and maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to safeguard your eyesight in the years to come.
Whether or not cataracts lead you to pursue surgery, understanding your eye health empowers you to make informed decisions for a healthier future. Keep the advice of experts like Heather Ogoke close at hand, and remember, taking care of your eyes today can lead to clearer tomorrows.