PREVENTINGCATARACTS

WHAT ARE CATARACTS?If you're over 60 years old and your vision has become blurry or

cloudy, you may have cataracts. This is a common condition in

older adults. It occurs when protien builds up in the lens of your

eye, making them cloudy. This keeps light from passing through

clearly and can cause you to lose some of your eyesight.

There are many different ways cataracts can form. However,

the most common way is through advanced age. It's important

to know how to help prevent cataracts from forming due to

the aging process, so you can maintain your healthy vision for

longer.

LISTENUP!

Eye exams conducted by a board-certified ophthalmologist can help detect

cataracts and other eye problems at their earliest stages. During your

appointment, make sure to inform your doctor of any changes in your vision,

medical history or medications you may be taking. It is recommended that you

get your eyes checked at least once a year.

01 SCHEDULE REGULAREYE EXAMS

Smoking can raise your chances for developing cataracts and other major health

issues. If possible, try to avoid smoking and cigarette smoke altogether. If you

are having trouble quitting, ask your doctor for suggestions including

medications, counseling and other strategies that may help you stop smoking.

02 AVOIDSMOKING

Diabetes and other medical issues can cause cataracts or increase your risk for

cataracts. Be sure to follow your treatment plan to maintain and manage your

health issues. Doing this will decrease your risk for vision problems down the

road.

03 MANAGE OTHERHEALTH ISSUES

Following a healthy diet will not only improve your eye health, but your overall

health as well. By adding a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables to your diet,

you can be sure that you're getting important vitamins, minerals, nutrients and

antioxidants that can all help maintain the health of your eyes.

04 FOLLOW AHEALTHY DIET

Ultraviolet light from the sun can be dangerous, especially when you venture

outside without the proper protection such as sunscreen, hats or sunglasses. By

wearing sunglasses, you can help block ultraviolet B rays from getting to your

eyes. This will in turn help prevent cataracts from developing.

05 WEARSUNGLASSES

Excessive alcohol use has been linked to an increased risk of cataracts. Try your

best to avoid heavy alcohol consumption. If you can't seem to kick the habit,

speak with your doctor to develop a plan that's right for you.

06 REDUCEALCOHOL USE

If you experience any signs or symptoms of cataracts,it's time to talk to your eye doctor about cataracttreatment. Signs and symptoms may include:

-Cloudy, blurry, foggy or filmy vision-Changes in the way you see color-Double vision in the affected eye-Eyeglasses or contact lenses aren't working well

and the most important tip of all...

Dr. Foulkes has years of experience helping patients restore and

maintain their healthy vision. If you are experiencing cataracts or

would like to learn more about how you can prevent cataracts from

developing later down the road, Dr. Foulkes can help.

Give our office a call at (888) 207-1404 to schedule your initial

consultation. We are dedicated to delivering amazing vision results to

patients in Oak Brook, Chicago and the surrounding Illinois areas.

DR. RICHARD B.FOULKES CAN HELP...