Can early-stage cataracts be reversed?

Noticing signs or symptoms of your vision failing can be a scary experience to go through. But can you reverse early-stage cataracts if you address the problem quickly enough?

Unfortunately, there is no option to reverse cataracts. Still, you can do things to prevent cataracts and potentially slow the speed at which they progress. Keep reading to learn what methods are available to treat your cataracts.

What are cataracts, and how do they progress?

Aging is the cause of many age-related diseases, such as cataracts. However, most people do not know that cataracts are the leading cause of blindness in older adults. They affect nearly a million Australians every year.^{1 1}Medibank Live Better. 2021. How common are cataracts in Australia? | Live Better. [online] Available at: <https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/health-brief/health-insights/700000-australians-now-living-with-cataracts/#:~:text=More%20than%20700%2C0001%20Australians,according%20to%20new%20Medibank%20data.> [Accessed 6 July 2021].

A cataract occurs when there is a buildup of proteins in the lens, creating protein clumps. These clumps prevent light from passing clearly through the lens, thus causing impaired vision. Cataracts may start as early as age 40.

You are more prone to developing cataracts if you have a family history, smoke, have diabetes,²Diabetesaustralia.com.au. 2021. [online] Available at: <https://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/wp-content/uploads/Case-for-an-Australian-Diabetes-Blindness-Prevention-Initiative.pdf> [Accessed 6 July 2021]. or use corticosteroid medications over a long period of time. In addition, lack of care in proper protection for your eyes is another factor that puts you at a higher risk of cataracts.

A cataract is not something that often appears overnight. Instead, it is slow in progression. You may not be aware that there is a change in your vision at first. However, as time passes, you will notice a difference in vision as more of the lens becomes cloudy.

The progression of a cataract will vary from person to person. It may even be different between each eye. Many people believe it’s best to hold out until their cataracts get worse before undergoing treatment. However, it’s easier to treat cataracts during the early stages. There are often fewer complications and less difficulty removing the cataract.

What are the symptoms of cataracts?

Aside from blurred vision, cataracts can make your eyes sensitive to light and glare and cause you to see double. As a result, you may have difficulty reading, identifying faces, driving (especially at night), or seeing fine details. In addition, colours may start to look less vibrant and appear faded. You may also find you have to change your eye prescription often. If you notice any of these problems, you should consider getting an eye exam.

How can I reduce my risk of developing cataracts?

It’s crucial to get frequent eye exams to check your eye health and screen for signs. But, of course, what you put in your body plays a crucial role too. You should quit smoking, lower alcohol intake and eat a healthy diet. Focus on fruits and vegetables high in antioxidants like vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, and lutein. If you have other health problems like hypertension, you should work to manage them.

Protect your eyes from the environment and avoid places with heavy pollution. You should wear sunglasses to shield your eyes from the sun and put on protective glasses if you’re in a situation where your eyes are at risk of foreign objects.