What increases the risk of cataract and how to detect it in time

0

Cataract is one of the most common causes of blindness. Visual impairment is caused by progressive clouding of the lens, which is normally transparent. The disease is mainly related to age and most often develops after 50-55 years. But it can occur earlier, especially if there are risk factors.

Cataract risk factors

In addition to age, they include:

< li>diabetes;
• eye injuries;
• extreme or excessive exposure to sunlight;
• smoking;
• obesity;
• use of certain medications;
• high blood pressure;
• excessive alcohol consumption.

Symptoms cataracts

The disease develops slowly. The initial stage can take years to develop, and many may not pay attention to the first symptoms of cataracts. They can be:

• weakened perception of colors;
• increased sensitivity to bright light;
• impaired vision in the dark;

< li>fog in front of the eyes;

• difficulty reading small print;
• appearance of flashing streaks or spots before the eyes;
• splitting of the image or distortion of its outlines.

When any of these symptoms appear, it is recommended to consult a doctor.

There are also special diagnostic studies aimed at detecting cataracts. That is why it is important to regularly do a comprehensive examination (screening), according to specialists of the Specialty Eye Institute (USA). Adults should have a comprehensive eye exam every two years, unless otherwise recommended by an ophthalmologist. After the age of 60, it is recommended to check your eyesight once a year.

Screening usually includes:

• visometry-diagnosis of visual acuity;
• refractometry-measurement of refraction (refractive abilities of the optical system of the eye) with the help of special equipment;
• examination using a slit lamp – in this case, you can examine the cornea, iris, study the state of the lens in detail – and other procedures.