Cataracts

Wear those shades!

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  Typically as a part of the aging process, Cataracts are a condition where the lens in the eye becomes cloudy.  As we age, the lens can become hard, cloudy, and turn yellow or brown.  Looking through a cloudy lens is like looking through a pair of dirty glasses. 

Potential signs of Cataracts are blurred vision, glare, difficulty seeing at night, muted colours, or decreased contrast.    

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These changes can be exacerbated by excessive UV damage.  Therefore, UV protection is highly recommended as well as eating antioxidant rich foods.

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The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends such antioxidant rich foods as:

• Small red beans

• Blueberries

• Pecans

• Red berries like cranberries, strawberries and raspberries

• Prunes

• Apples - Red delicious, Granny Smith and Gala

• Artichokes

• Dark green veggies like kale and broccoli​

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It is important to continue annual dilated eye exams to evaluate for any potential signs of Cataracts.  Cataracts may progress slowly over many years or quickly over a span of a few months.  A visit with your optometrist can help identify early signs of the condition and discuss potential treatment options if needed.

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