Cataracts are often associated with older adults, typically occurring in individuals over the age of 60. However, certain types of cataracts can develop at a younger age—even in children. What are the underlying causes of this condition in younger people?

What are Cataracts?

Cataracts are conditions where the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to vision problems. Individuals with cataracts often describe their vision as foggy, hazy, or smoky.

In older adults, the condition may initially be mild and unnoticeable but tends to worsen gradually over time. As the cloudiness increases, it can significantly impair vision.

The primary causes of cataracts include aging, injury, or trauma, all of which can alter the structure of the eye's lens. For age-related cataracts, the problem arises from protein buildup in the lens. These protein clumps obstruct light from passing through the lens, reducing clarity and sharpness of vision.

Causes of Cataracts in Younger People

When cataracts occur at an earlier age, they are referred to as early-onset cataracts. These are often linked to injuries or other underlying medical conditions. Common causes of cataracts in young people include:

Congenital Factors

Some cataracts are present at birth, known as congenital cataracts. This condition can also develop during childhood and is referred to as childhood cataracts.

Congenital cataracts may result from genetic abnormalities or infections during pregnancy. For example, infections caused by the Toxoplasma parasite, the rubella virus, or the herpes simplex virus can lead to cataracts in infants.

Diabetes

Diabetes mellitus significantly increases the risk of cataracts. In this case, the condition is referred to as diabetic cataracts. High blood sugar levels in diabetic patients cause sugar (sorbitol) to accumulate in the lens, resulting in cloudiness and blurred vision.

Eye injuries

Physical trauma to the eye, such as impact, punctures, or other forms of pressure, can damage the lens and lead to cataracts. This type of injury can cause cloudiness in the lens and impair vision.

Galactosemia

Galactosemia is a metabolic disorder where the body lacks the enzymes needed to process galactose, a type of sugar. This deficiency causes galactitol to build up in the lens, leading to cloudiness and the formation of cataracts if left untreated.

Risk Factors for Cataracts

In addition to age and specific causes, several factors can increase the likelihood of developing cataracts at a younger age, including:

• Family history of early-onset cataracts
• Excessive exposure to sunlight or UV rays
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Previous eye surgery
• Prolonged use of certain medications
• High blood pressure

If you are under 50 or 60 but experience vision problems alongside these risk factors, it is essential to consult a doctor. Timely medical advice can help manage the condition through appropriate treatments or lifestyle adjustments.

Cataracts Treatments

The most effective treatment for cataracts is surgery. Cataract surgery for adults is minimally invasive, takes a short amount of time, and usually doesn’t require a hospital stay.

During the procedure, a small incision is made near the edge of the cornea. Ultrasound waves are then used to break down the cloudy lens, or the lens is removed entirely and replaced with an artificial one.

For congenital cataracts, the same surgical methods are employed. However, surgery is typically reserved for severe cases where vision impairment significantly affects daily activities.

In pediatric cases, children are fitted with an artificial lens to replace the damaged one. As they grow, they may still require glasses or contact lenses to enhance their vision.

Although cataracts in young people are relatively rare, they can affect anyone. If you suspect cataracts or have questions about the condition, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional. You can also use the Ai Care app, available on the App Store and Play Store, for convenient health consultations.

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