Summer is just around the corner, and the importance of understanding ultraviolet light and the effects it could have on the eyes; including inducing cataracts, is much more essential. So what exactly are cataracts? A cataract is a general term for any kind of clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which sits behind the iris and the pupil. Cataracts are the most common cause of vision loss in people over age 40, and is the principal cause of blindness in the world. In fact, there are more cases of cataracts worldwide than there are of glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy combined.

A cataract starts out small and at first has little effect on your vision. You may notice that your vision is blurred a little, like looking through a cloudy or dirty window. A cataract may make light from the sun or a lamp seem too bright or glaring. Or you may notice when you drive at night that the oncoming headlights cause more glare than before. Colors may not appear as bright as they once did.

The lens inside the eye works much like a camera lens, focusing light onto the retina, similar to the film inside a camera. It adjusts the eye’s focus, letting us see things clearly both up close and far away. The lens is mostly made of water and protein. The protein is arranged in a precise way that keeps the lens clear and lets light pass through it. But as we age, some of the protein may clump together and start to cloud a small area of the lens. This is a cataract, and over time, it may grow larger and cloud more of the lens, making it harder to see.

No one knows for sure why the eye’s lens changes as we age, forming cataracts. Researchers are gradually identifying factors that may cause cataracts — and information that may help to prevent them. Many studies suggest that exposure to ultraviolet light is associated with cataract development, which is why the importance of UV protective sunglasses and wide brimmed hats are emphasized. Other studies suggest people with diabetes are at risk for developing a cataract. Other risk factors include cigarette smoke, air pollution and heavy alcohol and/or salt consumption.

Feel free to call our West Hollywood Optometry office at (323) 656-9550 if you have any questions or comments! Our eye doctors look forward to seeing you.

We have a great selection of UV protective and polarized sunglasses to get you ready for the summer sun. Stop by to check it out!

Eat well, exercise, stay healthy, wear your UV protective sunglasses, and have a great summer!