Cataracts: Overview

• The eye and vision
• Cataracts
• Eye examinations (visual field testing)
• How smoking affects the eyes
• Nutrition for healthy eyes
• Physical exercise and eye health
• How to have healthy eyes

The eye and vision

The eye is the organ that allows us to see. The eyeball itself is a sphere spanning approximately 24 mm in diameter. It is suspended in the bony socket by muscles controlling its movements, and is partially cushioned by a thick layer of fatty tissue within the skull that protects it during movement.

For more information, see The Eye and Vision.

Cataracts

Cataracts are the process by which the lens of the eye becomes cloudy or opaque. They are the leading cause of blindness and visual loss globally. Within Australia cataract surgery is the most commonly performed eye procedure.

For more information, see Cataracts.

Eye examinations (visual field testing)

An eye examination, also known as visual field testing, is the process of having the eyes examined for visual field defects or for monitoring changes in vision. Having the eyes examined regularly is the best way to detect vision changes and ensure that the conditions underlying changes in vision are diagnosed early.

For more information, see Eye Examinations (Visual Field Testing).

How smoking affects the eyes

There is an increased risk of a number of eye disorders, not only in those who smoke, but also in those who are frequently exposed to tobacco smoke. Smoking is a clearly established risk factor for cataracts, particularly pipe smoking.

For more information, see How Smoking Affects the Eyes.

Nutrition for healthy eyes

The eyes, like all other organs of the body, depend upon nutrients, vitamins and minerals, to maintain their health and proper function. A number of dietary factors influence the progression of cataracts.

For more information, see Nutrition for Healthy Eyes.

Physical exercise and eye health

The role of exercise in protecting eye health is relatively unknown in the general population and scientific studies. However, available evidence suggests that regular physical activity reduces the risk of a number of eye disorders, including cataracts.

For more information, see Physical Exercise and Eye Health.

How to have healthy eyes

Eyes can be damaged if they are exposed to too much light, toxic substances such as chemicals in cosmetic products, or certain environmental hazards. There are many ways in which the eyes can potentially be damaged, but also many preventative measures that can be taken to protect against eye diseases and/or disorders.

For more information, see How to Have Healthy Eyes.