Conditions that cause cataracts

Quoted from the Ministry of Health, cataracts are a degenerative process in the form of clouding in the lens of the eye, causing decreased visual ability to the point of blindness. This cloudiness is caused by a biochemical reaction that causes coagulation of lens proteins. Cataracts can occur congenitally (cataracts from birth) but in general, cataracts occur because:

• Degenerative processes associated with aging,
• Or it could also be caused by trauma and induction from drugs (steroids, chlorpromazine, alupurinol, amiodarone)
• Or complications from systemic conditions such as diabetes mellitus or eye diseases such as glaucoma and uveitis.

The following are several conditions that can cause cataracts:

1. Aging process

As the eyes age, proteins and dead cells in the lens will accumulate and form lumps. This causes the lens of the eye, which was initially clear, to slowly become foggy, thus disrupting the sufferer's vision.

2. Congenital

Congenital or congenital cataracts are cataracts that form before birth or during the first year of a baby's life. Generally, babies with cataracts cannot see normally and have difficulty controlling their eye movements properly. Congenital cataracts can be caused by several things, such as premature birth, having a family, or an infection the mother contracted during pregnancy.

3. Exposure to direct sunlight

Exposure to ultraviolet B rays, which come from direct sunlight, over a long period of time can cause oxidation of the lens of the eye and trigger the formation of cataracts. Slowing the onset of cataracts can be avoided with a healthy lifestyle. By maintaining your diet, increasing your consumption of antioxidants, exercising regularly and not smoking, you can avoid diabetes and cataracts at the same time.

To reduce the risk of developing cataracts, Hermina Friends can do the following things:

- Healthy lifestyle by eating fruit and vegetables that contain antioxidants, stopping smoking and consuming alcohol

- Avoid ultraviolet exposure by using glasses

- Control risk factors for Diabetes Mellitus (DM), Hypertension, Hyperlipidemia, and others

- Carry out regular eye examinations at health facilities.

If you experience symptoms such as blurred vision accompanied by smoke, glare or sensitivity to light, double vision or difficulty seeing at night, immediately consult an eye doctor for proper examination and treatment.