Excessive exposure to UV rays can increase the risk of cataracts by damaging the lens protein in the eye. Here’s how you can protect your eyes and prevent cataracts.

UV rays, which the sun emits, can increase the risk of cataracts — particularly if your eyes are exposed for a long time.

Learn more about how UV rays can increase the risk of cataracts, how to prevent this, and when to speak with a doctor.

Our eyes have a natural lens that helps us see the world around us. It allows our retinas to focus light, which translates into the images we see.

It’s important for this lens to stay clear so as not to interfere with our sight. But in some cases, the lens may become cloudy, resulting in blurry or hazy vision. This is known as cataracts.

One of the main ways cataracts can develop is through prolonged exposure to the sun. UV rays can damage the surface tissue and lens protein in our eyes. Over time, this can lead to our lenses becoming blurry and the development of cataracts.

As well as damage from UV rays, there are several other causes of cataracts. These include:

There are many ways to protect your eyes from sun damage and reduce your risk of developing cataracts. These include:

  • Wearing protective garments: Wearing items like sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats can help keep the sun out and prevent your eyes from overexposure to UV rays. This is particularly important on days when UV levels are high. Most weather forecast sites will display the UV range predicted each day.
  • Protecting your eyes: It’s important to protect your eyes when doing activities that may cause water or foreign objects to enter the eye. For example, it’s a good idea to wear safety goggles when using power tools, like saws or drills.
  • Eating eye-healthy foods: It can be beneficial to increase your intake of eye-healthy foods, such as leafy green vegetables, beans, and fortified cereals.
  • Avoiding the sun: Where possible, consider not going out into direct sunlight when the sun is at its peak. This can help reduce sun damage.
  • Quitting smoking: Smoking can increase your risk of developing cataracts. If you do smoke and are considering quitting, read our guide on effective methods to quit. You can also call 800-QUIT-NOW (800-784-8669) for free support.

Cataracts are only treatable with surgery. However, a healthcare professional may not suggest this right away. Instead, if the condition is in its early stages, they may recommend trying methods to help manage symptoms. These methods can include:

  • using brighter lights when completing tasks
  • wearing antiglare sunglasses
  • getting a new prescription for your eyeglasses or contact lenses

A doctor will typically only recommend surgery if your symptoms are interfering with your day-to-day life, such as having difficulty with tasks like driving. The surgery typically lasts 1 hour and involves the removal of the cloudy lens and replacement with an artificial lens.

It can typically take several weeks for your eyes to heal after cataract surgery.

It’s important to remember that you don’t need to have cataract surgery right away if your symptoms aren’t interfering with your overall quality of life. A healthcare professional can help you understand if it’s the right option for you.

If you have cataracts and your symptoms are worsening, it’s important to speak with a doctor. They can determine if you need surgery to treat the cataracts or if your symptoms are due to an underlying condition.

The following are some frequently asked questions about UV light and cataracts.

Excessive exposure to UV light can increase the risk of cataracts by damaging the lens protein in the eye.

UV light can affect cataracts. Prolonged exposure to the sun can damage the lens protein in our eyes and worsen symptoms.

Excessive exposure to UV rays can increase the risk of cataracts by damaging the lens protein in the eye.

There are many ways you can protect your eyes from sun damage and reduce your risk of developing cataracts. These include wearing sunglasses, protecting your eyes from injury, and eating eye-healthy foods.

If you have cataracts and your symptoms are worsening, it’s important to speak with a doctor.