When the normally clear lens within your eye becomes cloudy or opaque, it is called a cataract. Cataracts vary from extremely small areas of cloudiness to large opaque areas that cause a noticeable loss of vision . Cataracts most often develop in persons over the age of 55, but they are also occasionally found in younger people, including newborns.
Many factors can contribute to the development of cataracts.
Chemical changes can occur within the lens in your eye that causes it to become cloudy. This may be due to advancing age or it may be the result of heredity, an injury, or a disease. Excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation present in sunlight, cigarette smoking, or the use of certain medications are also risk factors for the development of cataracts. Currently, there are no proven methods to prevent cataracts from forming. However, reducing exposure to sunlight, decreasing or discontinuing smoking, and eating a balanced diet may be helpful in preventing their development.