There is no way to cure or get rid of cataracts once they've formed besides cataract surgery. No medication can eliminate existing cataracts, and no eyewear can completely counteract their effects. Some ophthalmologists are seeking nonsurgical solutions, but at this time, no other solution has been found.
One such treatment is N-acetylcarnosine eye drops, often called carnosine eye drops, or simply cataract eye drops. These drops are promoted as an over-the-counter cure for cataracts.
Unfortunately, there is no option to reverse cataracts. Still, you can do things to prevent cataracts and potentially slow the speed at which they progress.
People with low blood levels of antioxidants and those who eat few antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables have been reported to be at high risk for cataracts. Vitamin B2 and vitamin B3 are needed to protect glutathione, an important antioxidant in the eye. Vitamin B2 deficiency has been linked to cataracts.
No, there are currently no eye drops that can dissolve or cure cataracts. The only treatment to remove cataracts is surgery.
Currently, the only proven ways to remove cataracts are traditional cataract surgery and laser cataract surgery.
The three most common types of medicated eye drops for cataracts are antibiotics, corticosteroids and anti-inflammatories. Surgery is currently the only method of cataract treatment that can successfully restore vision for someone who suffers from cataracts.
Dehydration can also cause your cataracts to develop more quickly, so drink plenty of water and avoid too much alcohol. Smoking also makes it more likely cataracts will progress, so if you need the motivation to quit, let cataracts be it.
Although, the vision loss is only temporary in many cases as long as you rehydrate your body with plenty of water. If you experience constant eye dehydration, this can increase the risks of developing cataracts sooner.
Trauma-related cataracts are typically the most fast-growing type of cataracts. Radiation: Radiation-related cataracts, sometimes listed under trauma-related cataracts, occur after the lens has been exposed to radiation. Exposure to high levels of radiation can result in clouded vision in as little as two years.
Observational studies have demonstrated an inverse association between dietary intake and/or blood levels of lutein/zeaxanthin and the progression of cataract, particularly the nuclear form and cataract surgery.
For example, if you have advanced macular degeneration or a detached retina as well as cataracts, it's possible that removing the cataract and replacing it with a clear intraocular lens (IOL) might not improve your eyesight. In such cases, cataract surgery may not be recommended.
Two important vitamins for cataracts are vitamins C and E. Both of these vitamins can treat cataracts, but they can also slow the progression of the cataract and help prevent them. In one study, researchers compared the diets of twins over the age of 60.
In a stage 3 cataract, symptoms will be similar to stage 2 but more severe affecting quality of life and daily activities. In addition, the most noticeable change will be that the lens has changed in color from slightly clear or opaque to completely white or deep amber.
Soft drinks, processed or fried foods, and sugary snacks should be avoided to the greatest extent possible. Unhealthy foods and beverages have been related to a higher incidence of cataracts, even in children.
Omega-3 fatty acids are also known to reduce the risk of cataract development and progression. Good sources of omega-3 fatty acids include shrimp, tuna, cod, salmon, halibut, trout, herring, walnut, flaxseed oil, canola oil and spinach. Eat fish at least twice per week to nourish your eyes and protect your vision.
Research has shown that eating foods that contain the healthy vitamins C and E, and lutein and zeaxanthin, may reduce your risk of cataracts. Additionally, if you already have cataracts, these vitamins and nutrients may slow their progression.
Purpose: Observational studies suggest that higher serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)D) concentration may be associated with lower risk of cataract.
While not a direct cause of cataracts, stress and anxiety can aggravate existing eye conditions that lead to cataracts. A perfect example of this is dry eye syndrome, which is a condition that occurs when your tears are unable to keep your eyes lubricated.
Sun Exposure and Cataracts
Recent research has found that frequent, chronic exposure to sunlight can contribute to the formation of cataracts. Cataracts often form through a process known as oxidative stress, and typically appear with age.
Age is the greatest risk factor for cataracts. Age-related cataracts may develop between 40 and 50 years old. Where you live. Recent studies have shown that people who live in high altitudes are more at risk of developing cataracts.