Our optometrist at Amazing Eye Care has completed internship training and worked closely with cataract surgeons to provide top-notch co-management for cataracts. They are skilled at detecting early signs of cataracts, allowing for monitoring and slowing down their progression. Additionally, our optometrist can assess if your cataracts have advanced to a stage that requires surgery.
If you have been diagnosed with cataracts, you may be worried about needing surgery soon. However, there are preventive measures you can take to slow down the progression of cataracts and protect your vision. While surgery may be necessary eventually, these steps can help postpone the need for it for a significant period of time.
Guard your eyes from the sun
Remember to shield your eyes from the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) and high-energy visible (HEV) rays by heeding the National Eye Institute's recommendations. Opt for top-notch sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays and absorb the majority of HEV rays when outside. Select sunglasses with either oversized lenses or a close-fitting wraparound design for optimal defense. Keep in mind that the sun's rays can still reach you through clouds, so it's crucial to wear sunglasses regularly, particularly between 10 am and 3 pm (or 11 am and 4 pm during daylight saving time).
Avoid Steroid Eye Drops
Steroid eye drops, often prescribed for dry eyes or eye-related arthritis flare-ups, can speed up the development of cataracts. It is recommended to consult your Optometrist to discuss alternative management strategies for these conditions in order to prevent worsening of cataracts and the potential need for surgery.
Review Your Medications
Please consult your doctor about the potential impact of your medications on cataract progression, as there are over 300 commonly prescribed medications that could affect your eye health. It is important to address any information gaps between your primary care and eye doctors regarding the influence of your current medications on cataracts. If you need to continue taking the medication, make sure to prioritize sun avoidance during peak hours and always wear sunglasses to protect your eyes.
Quit Smoking
Another important reason to quit smoking is that it can significantly increase the risk of developing cataracts. By quitting smoking, you can help slow down the progression of cataracts and improve your overall eye health.
Adopt eye-healthy dietary habits
Studies have shown that certain vitamins and nutrients, particularly antioxidants, can help improve eye health as we age. If you have been diagnosed with cataracts, adding antioxidant-rich foods to your diet may slow down the progression of the condition. Some examples of these foods include dark chocolate, blueberries, strawberries, pecans, carrots, sweet potatoes, artichokes, kale, red cabbage, beans, beets, spinach, apples, and plums.
Doctors recommend increasing your intake of omega-3 fatty acid-rich fish to reduce the risk of cataracts or slow their development. Taking a multivitamin with Vitamin C and E may also be beneficial. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to create a personalized healthy eating plan to prevent cataracts.
Making these dietary changes not only helps prevent cataracts but also reduces the risk of lifestyle diseases like diabetes. Research has shown that a diet high in processed carbohydrates can increase the risk of cataracts. It is essential to create a customized plan that suits your needs and promotes overall well-being.
Take proactive steps to manage your cataract diagnosis by scheduling regular eye exams, communicating effectively with your doctor, and following these tips. By doing so, you can improve your vision and potentially avoid the need for cataract surgery in the future.