Causes of Cataracts

Cataracts occur when protein builds up on the eye's crystalline lens, progressively obscuring vision by preventing light from reaching the retina. Advancing age is the reason most cataracts form, although causes of cataracts may include everything from environmental factors to medications used on a daily basis. If your medical history or lifestyle increases your risk of developing cataracts, it is important to have the health of your eyes monitored regularly by a qualified ophthalmologist.

Age

Age is the main reason cataracts form. The eye disease appears in over 22 million Americans over the age of 40. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, over 50% of Americans over the age of 80 have cataracts. In fact, if we live long enough, nearly all of us will eventually develop cataracts. Because the lens of the eye cannot shed old cells naturally, protein that accumulates on the lens gradually builds up over time, progressively obscuring vision by preventing light from reaching the retina.

Ultraviolet Radiation (UVA or UVB)

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, long-term exposure to ultraviolet radiation, especially UVB rays, can cause changes in pigment that lead to the formation of cataracts. This is especially common in tropical climates, where sun exposure occurs year-round. To protect the eyes from sun damage, it is important to wear sunglasses with a high level of UVA/UVB protection.

Medications

Certain medications are well-known causes of cataracts, and can both lead to cataract formation as well as accelerate their development. These medications include:

• Corticosteroids
• Eye drops containing steroids
• Glaucoma medications
• Certain antipsychotics and antidepressants
• Certain medications for autoimmune conditions
• Medication to control heart arrhythmia

Steroid medications are most heavily associated with cataract formation, and may be prescribed as pills, injections, or eye drops. If you are taking steroid medications to manage a long-term condition, it is important to have your ocular health managed by a qualified ophthalmologist, and note any visual changes.

Diabetes

High levels of blood sugar cause the lens of the eye to swell with excess fluid, making the eyes of patients with diabetes more susceptible to cataracts and glaucoma. People who have diabetes are more likely to develop cataracts at a younger age, and experience rapid cataract progression. Careful monitoring of blood sugar levels helps to minimize the risk of developing cataracts.

Weight

Studies show individuals who are overweight are more likely to develop cataracts, while the risk of cataract development doubles for individuals who are clinically obese. Of all the cataract types, weight is most commonly linked to the development of posterior subcapsular cataracts.

Injury, Inflammation or Trauma to the Eye

Injury or trauma to the eye increases a patient's risk of developing cataracts. Individuals who have experienced inflammation in the eye, either post-operatively or as the result of another eye disease, are also more likely to eventually develop cataracts. For instance, iritis is an ocular condition that causes chronic inflammation inside the eye, and is commonly linked to early and rapid cataract formation.

Smoking and Alcohol

Lifestyle habits such as smoking or consuming alcohol are often considered causes of cataracts. Men who smoke a pack of cigarettes per day double their risk of developing cataracts, while female heavy smokers increase their risk by 50%. Some doctors attribute the connection to the high level of free radicals present in the bodies of smokers, placing them at particular risk of developing nuclear cataracts.

Alcohol is responsible for a slight increase in the likelihood that individuals will develop cataracts, and the level of risk directly correlates to the amount of alcohol consumed. For both eye and overall health, it is recommended that drinking be limited to moderate amounts.

Contact an Ophthalmologist

If you are at risk of developing cataracts, it is important to be evaluated regularly by a qualified ophthalmologist. Identifying and treating cataracts early is important in preventing permanent vision loss. By contacting a qualified ophthalmologist in your area today, you can learn more about the causes of cataracts and take control of the health of your eyes.

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