Navigating cloudy vision, heightened sensitivity to light, double vision in your 30s? These subtle daily irritations could be more than just signs of eye fatigue and could be a call for medical intervention. In modern times, when people spend hours and hours working on laptops or scrolling their mobile phones, hazy vision and tiredness have become a part of life. But if the symptoms get worse over the time, it could be a signal of some serious eye issues like cataracts.
Long associated with ageing, cataracts have suddenly become more widespread among younger adults, with more and more individuals in their 30s and 40s being diagnosed with it. There are several possible explanations for the increasing prevalence of this condition among the younger generation and these uncommon reasons may surprise you.
Understanding the signs and symptoms of cataracts
The World Health Organisation’s data suggest that cataracts are one of the leading causes of vision impairment and blindness, accounting for about 33% of the cases worldwide with ageing being the primary reason.
The condition primarily affects the eye’s lens, located behind the pupil and iris. Generally, cataracts start to develop somewhere between the ages of 40 to 50 and take several years to affect vision to the extent that it start interfering with day-to-day routine.
Ageing causes natural proteins in the lens to break apart. When later, these pieces stick together, they lead to cataracts that block clear vision.
Younger adults develop fewer common types of cataracts such as posterior subcapsular cataracts, and cortical and nuclear cataracts and they are typically accompanied by a range of symptoms like:
Hazy or cloudy vision
Heightened sensitivity to light
Difficulty seeing at night
Frequent changes in eyeglass prescription
Halos around lights
Double vision in one eye
What leads to cataracts in younger adults
Cataracts are often caused by a combination of factors, which may differ from person to person. It is rare for two individuals to show the same symptoms.
UV Exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) rays from sunlight could also damage the proteins in the eye's lens and can be a reason for early cataracts in younger individuals.
Unmanaged Diabetes: Unmanaged diabetes and constant high blood sugar levels can swell the lens of the eyes and over time damage them.
Smoking: Harmful chemicals emitted from cigarette smoke could also cloud the vision.
Genetic Predisposition: Some genes are also associated with cataracts.
Poor Nutrition: Regularly taking a diet low in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals may also increase the risk of developing this eye problem.
The link between screentime and cataracts
Blue light emitted from laptops, smartphones, tablets or any other digital devices usually to dryness, eye fatigue and headaches. However, in any case, there is no evidence that establishes the link between extended exposure to the screen and the development of cataracts. They may worsen the already existing symptoms. Staring at the blue screen for a long can speed up blurry vision as well as damage the lens.
Ayurvedic approaches to maintain healthy vision
There are various Ayurvedic practices which can help to maintain the vision and keep the eyes healthy:
Triphala eye wash: Regularly washing the eyes with a Triphala solution – an herbal formulation made of three fruits: Indian Gooseberry, Indian Gallnut and Beleric myrobalan – can help remove pollutants and ease irritation in the eyes.
Netra tarpana therapy: This medicated ghee eye treatment helps soothe and protect the eyes from environmental damage. It cools, lubricates, and bring relief to the eyes. However, it should be performed under expert supervision.
Herbal nutrition: As one of the causes of cataracts is a lack of sufficient nutrient intake, including antioxidant-rich herbs like Amla and Turmeric has been proven to be beneficial in strengthening and protecting eye tissues.
Hydration & diet: One of the most effective treatment options to reduce the risk of cataracts is eating a well-balanced meal and staying hydrated. Including Vitamin A rich foods like carrots, greens can improve the vision and overall eye health.
Ayurvedic eye drops: Ayurvedic eye drops made with ingredients like Amla, Chandan, Triphala, and Jivanti can reduce dryness, relieve strain, and nourish the eyes, promoting clarity and comfort without harmful chemicals.
Dr. Mandeep Singh Basu, Director at Jagat Pharma