Can You Prevent Cataracts?

Cataracts are one of the leading causes of vision loss in older adults and a common reason people seek help from an eye specialist. At West County Ophthalmology, patients frequently ask if preventing cataracts is possible. While cataracts are often a natural part of aging and may not be preventable, there are several proactive steps you can take to reduce your risk and potentially delay their development.

Making smart lifestyle choices and caring for your overall health can make a big difference in long-term vision preservation. Read on, then contact our Chesterfield, MO facility to schedule an eye exam.

What causes cataracts?

Understanding the causes of cataracts can help you make informed decisions about prevention. Cataracts occur when the clear lens of the eye becomes cloudy, usually due to age-related changes in lens proteins. However, other contributing factors include:

Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
Diabetes and other chronic health conditions
Eye injuries or previous surgeries
Long-term use of corticosteroid medications
Family history of cataracts

While not all of these can be controlled, many can be managed through healthy habits and regular eye care.

What are the signs and symptoms of cataracts?

Early cataract symptoms may be subtle, but recognizing the signs is key to early detection and effective management. Common symptoms include:

Blurry or cloudy vision
Increased sensitivity to light and glare
Faded or yellowed colors
Difficulty seeing at night
Frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions
Halos around lights,

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to schedule a comprehensive eye exam at our Chesterfield, MO facility to determine if cataract treatment is needed.

Tips for preventing cataracts

While aging is inevitable, there are ways to lower your risk of developing cataracts or delay their progression. Some tips include:

Protect your eyes from UV light: Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays whenever you're outdoors. UV exposure is strongly linked to faster cataract formation.
Follow a nutritious diet: A diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and phytonutrients supports healthy eyes. Incorporate leafy greens (such as spinach and kale), colorful fruits (such as lemons, oranges, and strawberries), fatty fish (such as salmon), and vegetables (such as carrots and potatoes) into your meals.
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol: Smoking and heavy alcohol use can increase oxidative stress in the eye, which contributes to cataract development.
Manage health conditions: Conditions like diabetes can accelerate cataract formation. Managing your blood sugar and other chronic issues helps protect your eyes.
Keep up with eye exams: Routine exams are essential for detecting cataracts early and monitoring changes in your vision. Early intervention allows for more successful outcomes.

When is cataract treatment needed?

If cataracts begin to interfere with your daily activities, we may recommend cataract removal. Cataract surgery is a safe, outpatient procedure that replaces the clouded lens with a clear, artificial lens. It is one of the most effective treatments available, with a high success rate and minimal recovery time. At West County Ophthalmology, we use advanced surgical techniques and technology to ensure precision, safety, and optimal visual outcomes for each patient.

Get cataract care in Chesterfield, MO

While preventing cataracts may not always be possible, early detection, healthy lifestyle choices, and specialized care can significantly improve your long-term eye health. If you're concerned about cataracts or already experiencing symptoms, we're here to help. At West County Ophthalmology, our experienced team provides comprehensive care — from monitoring the earliest signs to performing advanced cataract surgery when necessary.

Whether you're managing early symptoms or ready for eye surgery for cataracts, we're committed to delivering exceptional results and personal attention every step of the way. Schedule your appointment at our Chesterfield, MO facility today to learn more about cataract treatment options and how to help protect your vision for years to come.