Major Causes of Cataract
(1) Age
This is one of the most common cause of cataracts. The eye lens suffers degeneration over a period. The lens deterioration can happen much before than usual because of lifestyle diseases like diabetes and hypertension. The body is unable to restore the loss of lens quality.
(2) Smoking
Smoking and drinking contribute majorly towards increasing the odds of having a cataract. Smoking causes oxidation in the eye lens leading to changing the physiology of the lens. It also leads to metals collecting in the lens adding to the degeneration of the lens.
(3) Electric shock
It also a cause of cataract in electrician. It causes a typical cataract called Anterior subcapsular cataract.
(4) Radiation
Apart from a host of other harmful effects, the radiations alter the DNA of the lens. UV rays, X-rays, and even microwaves can change the lens forever. Injuries caused due to heat and electricity change the protein structure of the lens much like how turns white on boiling.
(5) Genes
Chromosomal abnormalities contribute to cataracts in children. Genes play a pivotal role in developing a cataract. If your parents or grandparents suffered from it, there are high chances of you forming the same.
(6) Medications
Many types of medications, especially those given for schizophrenia, cause cataracts. Even low consumption of Vitamin C increases the incidence of having a cataract.
(7) Trauma
Injuries to the eyes can cause changes in the thickness of the lens either due to swelling, inflammation or otherwise. Depending on the kind and severity of the trauma, fluid may enter the lens and cause inflammation and clouding of the lens.
