The lens in our eyes is mainly made of water and proteins. As we age, the flexibility of the lens decreases and the proteins change their structure and start clumping together. This leads to blurred vision. Here are the main causes of cataracts:
Age-related Degeneration: The most important scientific reason for cataracts is aging. Usually, changes begin to occur in the lens of the eye after the age of 40. Most people over the age of 60 have at least some degree of cataract, which reduces the transparency of the lens.
Free radicals and oxidative stress: Oxidative stress increases in the body as we age. This can cause the production of free radicals that damage cells. When these free radicals oxidize the protein molecules in the lens of the eye, the lens thickens and light passes through it.
Uncontrolled Diabetes: People with diabetes are more likely to develop cataracts at a younger age than others. When the level of glucose in the blood increases, it enters the lens of the eye and turns into a substance called sorbitol. When sorbitol builds up in the lens, more water enters the lens and loses its natural structure, causing cataracts.
UV Radiation & Smoking: Direct exposure to the strong ultraviolet (UV) rays in sunlight can destroy eye-protecting factors such as lutein and zeaxanthin. This can accelerate the protein clotting in the lens. In addition, the toxic fumes that enter the body when smoking can harm the cells in the lens of the eye.
Eye Trauma & Corticosteroids: Previous eye injuries, infections, or other eye surgeries can affect the health of the lens and cause cataracts later on. Similarly, people who use steroid pills or eye drops for other conditions for a long time are also at a higher risk of developing cataracts.