/assets/images/provider/photos/2794790.jpeg)
4 Common Myths About Cataracts, Debunked
June is Cataract Awareness Month, a perfect time to discuss one of the leading causes of preventable vision loss. Cataracts are common, yet treatment is available when caught early. This article busts common myths about cataracts.
Focus Refined Eye Care has locations in The Heights and Montrose sections of Houston, Texas. Dr. Bimal Patel specializes in eye care, including diagnosing and treating cataracts. He can spot early signs of cataracts, help you protect your vision, and refer you for cataract surgery if necessary.
Let’s explore some common myths surrounding cataracts so you can know the risk factors and symptoms.
4 cataract myths, debunked
A cataract refers to the cloudy lens you might have seen in someone’s eye. It can look hazy or milky to someone else. However, people with cataracts usually experience blurry vision, rings around lights called halos, and difficulty driving at night. Cataracts are common; around 20.5 million Americans over 40 have one in one or both eyes.
However, having cataracts doesn’t mean you’re a few months away from losing your eyesight. Understand these cataract myths and get regular eye exams to protect your eyesight.
Myth #1: Only older people get cataracts
While cataracts are most common in older people, cataracts can develop in anyone. The risk factors for cataracts include:
- Genetics
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Eye injuries
- Medication side effects
Even newborns can be born with cataracts, so don’t write them off as affecting only seniors.
Myth #2: Cataracts are abnormal growths
Cataracts form when proteins in your eye’s lens break down and clump together. This causes the cloudiness associated with cataracts. You might see the world through a yellow or brown cast, experience double vision, or see halos around lights.
Myth #3: There’s no cataract prevention
Genetics and lifestyle can impact cataract development. For example, if diabetes runs in your family, you’re at greater risk. However, a healthy lifestyle with plenty of leafy greens and UV-blocking sunglasses can help reduce your risk.
Myth #4: Cataracts require immediate surgery
Not necessarily. You can have cataracts and not have them impact your daily activities. If that’s true for you, you don’t need surgery. However, you and your eye doctor need to monitor your vision closely. If you develop related vision problems, it’s time to consider surgery.
Expert advice
Maintain your healthy vision with regular checkups at Focus Refined Eye Care in Houston, Texas's Heights and Montrose sections. Our expert team uses a series of tests to check your eyesight and eye health. Book your appointment online using our easy scheduling tool.