Cataract Causes

Causes of Cataracts

Cataracts can be triggered by various factors:

• Age-related causes
• Genetic causes
• Metabolic diseases
• Eye injuries and diseases
• External factors
• Medications and toxins
• Lifestyle

Age-related causes

The most common cause of cataracts is the natural aging process of the eye lens. With increasing age, the proteins in the lens change, causing them to clump together and form cloudy areas. This process occurs gradually, which is why age-related cataracts usually only become noticeable in later years of life.

Genetic causes

Cataracts can also be genetically determined, meaning they are present from birth or occur in early childhood. Various genetic defects can be responsible for this. Additionally, infections during pregnancy such as rubella or toxoplasmosis can lead to congenital cataracts in the unborn child.

Metabolic diseases

Certain metabolic diseases such as diabetes mellitus increase the risk of developing cataracts. Similarly, calcium deficiency or rarer conditions such as galactosemia, a congenital metabolic disorder, can contribute to clouding of the eye lens.

Eye injuries and diseases

Injuries or diseases of the eyes are other possible causes of cataracts. Chronic inflammation in the eye (uveitis) or previous eye surgeries can promote the development of cataracts.

External factors

Long-term exposure to external influences such as UV radiation, X-rays, or infrared radiation can also lead to cataract development. People who are frequently exposed to strong radiation professionally or in their leisure time have an increased risk.

Medications and toxins

Some medications, particularly steroids (cortisone) with long-term use, can promote cataract formation. Poisoning from certain chemicals or toxic substances can also lead to lens clouding.

Lifestyle

Lifestyle habits also influence the health of the eye lens. Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and malnutrition can accelerate the development of cataracts.

Risk factors

An increased risk for cataracts exists when there is a family history. Other risk factors include obesity, high blood pressure, and hormone replacement therapy. Excessive consumption of alcohol and tobacco also has negative effects. Regarding gender-specific differences, it is known that women may be more frequently affected due to hormonal factors.

What prevention and delay options are available?

Healthy nutrition

A balanced diet rich in antioxidants and vitamin E can help protect the eye lens from premature aging processes and delay the development of cataracts.

Protection from UV radiation

Wearing sunglasses with UV protection as well as hats for sun protection plays an important role in protecting the eyes from harmful UV radiation and thereby reducing the risk of cataract formation.

Lifestyle changes

Reducing alcohol and tobacco consumption has a positive effect on eye health. Additionally, regular exercise and weight control help minimize the risk of cataracts.

Treatment of underlying diseases

Consistent treatment and control of existing underlying diseases, particularly diabetes and high blood pressure, is crucial to reduce the risk of cataract development or slow its progression.

Do you have further questions about cataract surgery or would you like to schedule a consultation appointment? Our team at FIRST SIGHT Eye Clinic directly at Zurich Main Station is happy to help you.

We offer you comprehensive, individual consultation – from choosing the optimal lens implant to aftercare – so that you can go into your cataract surgery well-informed and reassured.

Further Information

Everything about cataract surgery: Procedure and surgical techniques

After cataract surgery: Follow-up care

Cataract symptoms: Recognizing signs

Freedom from glasses after cataract surgery: Lens options and aftercare

Lens options for cataract surgery: Advantages and disadvantages