How to Maintain Eye Health to Prevent Cataracts

Cataracts are a natural part of the aging process, but certain behaviors and conditions can accelerate their development. At Wang Vision Institute in Nashville, TN, founder Dr. Ming Wang — a Harvard & MIT graduate who holds a doctorate degree in laser physics — and our experienced team, including Dr. Kyle Jones and Dr. Abhilash Guduru, provide innovative care to address cataracts and offer strategies to help slow their progression. With groundbreaking achievements — including the first laser-assisted cataract surgery in the state — Wang Vision Institute remains a trusted leader in eye care. Keep reading to learn more about how you can maintain your eye health and take simple steps to delay cataracts, like changing your diet, not smoking, and others. 

What causes cataracts to develop? 

Cataracts occur when the proteins in the eye's lens begin to break down and cloud vision. While this process happens naturally as you age, other factors can contribute to earlier or more severe cataract development. Common causes and risk factors for cataracts include:  

• Prolonged UV exposure 
• Smoking and excessive alcohol use 
• Medical conditions, like diabetes or hypertension 
• Genetics or family history of cataracts 
• Degenerative myopia (severe nearsightedness) 
• Certain medications, such as steroids 
• Previous eye surgeries or trauma 

By understanding and managing these cataract risk factors, you can take an active role in protecting your vision. 

How can you prevent cataracts?  

While cataracts may not be preventable, there are proven strategies to promote eye health and slow cataract progression or even delay getting cataracts. Some of the most impactful strategies for slowing the development or early onset of cataracts include:  

• Wear high-quality UV-blocking sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays 
• Quit all tobacco use, including smoking and chewing 
• Adopt a nutrient-rich diet, including foods rich in antioxidants 
• Manage chronic conditions properly with the supervision of a medical professional 
• Minimize alcohol consumption 
• Schedule regular eye exams 

Is there anything I can do if I already have cataracts? 

For patients who already have cataracts, prompt intervention can help restore vision and improve overall quality of life sooner. Wang Vision Institute proudly performed the state's first Vivity Lens surgery and the first laser-assisted trifocal PanOptix Lens procedure, offering life-changing results for cataract patients. With these advanced surgeries, we utilize intraocular lenses (IOLs) that can be tailored to meet each patient's needs, providing clear vision for various distances, even for patients with astigmatism or presbyopia. 

Our surgeon's extensive experience in laser cataract surgery allows for precise, effective, and minimally invasive treatment. During your consultation, our team will assess your condition, recommend the most appropriate cataract lens option possible, and guide you through each step in the journey to clearer vision. 

Take proactive steps to protect your vision and delay cataracts with comprehensive eye care in Nashville, TN 

Cataracts may be common and unavoidable, but they don't have to define your future. By adopting healthy habits and seeking dedicated eye care at Wang Vision Institute, you can reduce your risk of cataracts and preserve your eye health for years to come. To schedule an evaluation or to learn more about advanced cataract treatment, contact our Nashville, TN vision care office today.