Preventing Cataract - Dr. Nimesh P. Mehta

Preventing Cataract....

* Protect the eyes from the potential side effects of certain medications. Prolonged use of steroids, tranquilizers, and psoriasis medication may cause cataracts when taken in large doses over a long period of time.

*Those suffering from diabetes should keep their blood sugar under control. This is because diabetics tend to develop cataracts faster and at an earlier age than other adults.

*Protect your eyes from ultraviolet sun rays as these rays speed up the
development of cataracts. Whenever out in the sun, wear sunglasses.

* Studies have shown that antioxidant vitamins such as vitamin C, vitamin E and beta carotene slow the development of cataracts. Make sure your body doesn't lack any of these vitamins and if it does, take supplements.

* If there is uncontrolled diabetes, injury to the eye, or visual symptoms of
decreased reading vision, consult an Ophthalmologist to evaluate the problem to help restore sight and prevent blindness.

* Foods like butter, oils (except olive oil) and salt, and increased fat consumption
in general has been associated with a higher risk of developing cataracts. So, avoid using or limit the intake of such foods.

* A diet rich in spinach, cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli), tomatoes, peppers,
citrus fruits and melons help prevent cataracts.

* Avoid exposure to heavy metals, particularly cadmium, copper, lead, iron and nickel as they may also increase cataract formation as these metals have been
found in cataractous lenses.

* Cataracts that occur due to the ageing process cannot be prevented as the ageing process itself cannot be prevented.

- Dr. Nimesh P. Mehta

           M.S. ( Ophth..)
DIVYADRASHTI EYE CARE CENTRE , Borivali (West), Mumbai-92