Causes of Cataract & Risk Factors


Cataracts tend to develop in both eyes and can affect the entire lens.  There is no general consensus as to what causes cataract and research is not clear on the risk factors.  Cataract may just be a result of wear and tear overtime.  Certain types of radiation including UV light may heighten risk together with cigarette smoke, pollution and excessive alcohol consumption.  Diet may play a part with high salt consumption increasing risk as well as severe dehydration.  Further, diabetes or being particularly over or under weight may increase your chances of developing a cataract and certain eye surgeries may increase the risk.  Women have also shown to be more at risk than men.  Some argue that medications such as steroids, diuretics and tranquillisers can increase the likelihood of cataract development. 

There is no general consensus as to the cause and risk factors of cataract.  In younger people, eye trauma may cause cataract but generally it is common among people over 65 years of age, particularly if they have a family history of cataracts.

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