What Causes Cataracts?

Researchers do not know all of the causes of cataract formation. At Florida Eye Center, we are certain that there are risk factors associated with cataracts. We can examine for these and treat you.

Get back in the swing of things by calling Florida Eye Center at 727-895-2020 today for a consultation with one of our Cataract Specialists.

These risk factors include:

• Age. Most Americans older than 60 years have cataracts. We can recommend nutrition therapy for this.

• Medical conditions. Diabetes and other systemic diseases, glaucoma, and metabolic abnormalities can cause cataracts. We can work to control these causes.

• Eye injuries. These are called traumatic cataracts. A blow to the eye, great heat or cold, chemical injury, exposure to radiation (usually associated with radiation therapy for cancer patients), and other injuries can lead to cataract formation. We can limit this with immediate treatment.

• Ultraviolet radiation (UVA or UVB). Long-term exposure to sunlight is believed to speed the development of cataracts. We can help prevent this with proper protection in your glasses.

• Oral steroids and other medications. Oral steroids (such as prednisone), the gout medication allopurinol, the breast cancer drug tamoxifen, the heart medication amiodorone, and the long-term use of aspirin have also been associated with cataracts. We can monitor your eyes for this.

• Smoking. All studies indicate that smokers are twice as likely to develop cataracts than nonsmokers and that quitting can reduce the risk for developing cataracts. We will try to help you with this.