Beyond Age: Can Children and Young Adults Get Cataracts?

Cataracts are commonly associated with the elderly; however, children and young adults can also develop them. It might sound surprising, but various circumstances and conditions can result in cataracts at any age. Let’s explore how cataracts aren’t strictly an age-related condition.

Dispelling the Misconception About Age and Cataracts

While cataracts are most common among the elderly, it is a fallacy to say they are exclusively an age-related condition. For various reasons, children and young adults can also develop cataracts, even if they’re wearing contact lenses.

 

For instance, newborns can be afflicted with cataracts, a condition known as congenital cataracts. This congenital eye problem can be hereditary or caused by infections during pregnancy. Likewise, young adults can acquire what are known as secondary cataracts due to certain diseases like diabetes or lifestyle behaviors such as smoking and excessive drinking.

Symptoms and Detection of Cataracts in Young People

Symptoms of cataracts can be quite similar across all age groups, including blurred or cloudy vision and difficulty with night vision. Regular comprehensive eye exams are crucial to detecting and managing this condition early. Your eye exam doctor is instrumental in this process, identifying signs that may be overlooked without professional evaluation.

Management and Treatment of Pediatric and Young Adult Cataracts

Treatment options for cataracts in young people depend on the severity of the condition and the individual’s age. In some cases, glasses or contact lenses may be sufficient to improve vision. For more advanced cataracts, surgery to remove the clouded lens and replace it with an artificial one may be necessary.

Consult With Lumen Optometric for Your Eye Care Needs

If you or your loved ones need eye aid, get in touch with Lumen Optometric at (626) 921-0199 or fill out this contact form to schedule an appointment. We specialize in a wide range of eye care services, including eye exams for eye conditions like cataracts, prescription contacts and lenses, and orthokeratology.