Causes of cataracts
Disease description:
My grandmother was recently diagnosed with cataracts. Her vision has become very blurry. The doctor recommended surgical treatment, but we're not sure if it's risky. I'd like to know what causes cataracts.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Shuai
The causes of cataract formation can be summarized as follows:
1. Age factor: With increasing age, ocular tissues gradually degenerate, leading to decreased lens transparency and changes in color, thereby increasing the risk of cataracts.
2. Genetic factors: A family history of cataracts, especially among direct relatives, significantly increases the likelihood of developing the condition.
3. Eye trauma: Injuries to the eye, such as penetrating wounds or blunt trauma, may cause rupture of the lens capsule or protein denaturation, thus triggering cataracts.
4. Malnutrition: Long-term picky eating, selective dieting, or excessive fasting can lead to deficiency of essential nutrients such as vitamin E and vitamin C, which may impair lens metabolism and increase the risk of cataracts.
5. Other factors: Conditions such as glaucoma or diabetes, or prolonged exposure to chemicals and ionizing radiation, may also contribute to the development of cataracts.
