Sunglasses can slow the development of cataracts by protecting your eyes and the tender skin around your eyes from UV rays. Try to pick sunglasses that offer 100% UV or UV400 protection, which ensures you’re protected from both UVA and UVB rays.
UV rays can increase your risk of multiple conditions, aside from cataracts, including:
eye cancers
eye growths, such as pterygium
snow blindness
How to prevent cataracts?
Some tips to protect your eyes and help prevent cataracts include:
protecting your eyes from the sun by wearing sunglasses and a hat with a brim to block the sun
protecting your eyes from injury during intensive activities or sports
wearing protective gear for your eyes
quitting smoking, if you smoke
eating foods that are good for your eyes, like leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains
Some additional tips include:
avoiding tanning beds
not looking directly at the sun, which can permanently damage the back of your eye
knowing that clouds don’t block UV light, and this could still affect you when it’s not sunny outside
Am I at a higher risk of developing cataracts?
Everyone’s risk of developing cataracts increases as they get older. According to the National Eye Institute, you might have a higher risk of developing cataracts faster if you:
have certain health conditions, such as diabetes
smoke
misuse of alcohol
have a family history of early cataract development
have spent a lot of time in the sun
take steroids, which are used to treat allergies or arthritis
have had any eye surgery or eye injury
have had radiation treatment on your upper body
If you want to know more about your individual risk of cataracts, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor. They can offer more tips and suggestions on how to prevent cataracts and decrease your risk of developing the condition.