A cataract is a cloudy area in the lens of your eye. It’s very common as you get older. In fact, more than half of all Americans 80 or older either have cataracts or have had surgery to get rid of it.
According to Dr. Masih Ahmed from Baylor College of Medicine, living in the sunny south puts us at risk of cataracts too.
“Typically we think of 60 and beyond. If you live in an environment where it’s sunny year-round or your genetics are more prone to getting cataracts earlier,” Dr. Ahmed explained. “You might see in some northern cities it’s more around 70. But yes, people do tend to get it a little bit earlier if their environments are more sunny. I would say if you start noticing any change in your vision around that age and you’re noticing that headlights from cars are giving you glare or in the sunlight you’re getting some glare. That’s a good idea to get an eye exam.”
READ MORE: Top 5 health issues Houston men should look out for during Men’s Health Awareness Month
In addition to difficulty seeing at night: cloudy vision, sensitivity, seeing objects in yellow or eye pain are also symptoms of cataracts.
Dr. Ahmed said certain medical conditions like diabetes or prior radiation could increase your risk of cataracts.
Cataracts can be treated. With some lasers there’s even a shorter recovery and less swelling after surgery.
