Some jobs can lead someone to have a cataract. Even if you don’t have an eye injury or congenital cataracts, you can get cataracts if you do some jobs. The essence of putting this together is not to get you scared but rather to prepare your mind. You may be wondering if one can get cataracts from work. Of course, it is possible. That is why preventing yourself from getting a cataract is good if you know your job can place you at risk of having it. Now, what are those jobs? That is what this write-up is all about.
This article will explain the occupations that may likely lead someone to the theatre room for eye surgery. We are flattering you. Countless people out there ended up doing cataract surgery, and they got cataracts from their occupations. But before we proceed, it would be nice to briefly discuss the meaning of cataracts and what cataract surgery entails.
What is a cataract?
When you notice some signs like the glare of light, astigmatism, and trouble seeing at night, which means you may be battling with cataracts. Recently, research shows that when the natural lens is faulty, one will begin to see some signs. And there should be a cause for alarm. Some people will notice that they find it hard to read while some people’s vision becomes blurry. That’s cataract symptoms. Although, you can’t rightly judge that you have a cataract if you see the above signs. You need to contact your eye specialist for a proper checkup. We are just giving you a clue and what a cataract can look like. This eye problem is one of the major eye challenges that is ruling nations nowadays. It occurs when there’s a gray zone in the eye lens. So, when the protein in the eye gathers clumps, the lens becomes weak, and it won’t be able to transport clear images to the retina. And once that occurs, one will need to undergo cataract surgery.
What is cataract surgery?
Cataract surgery is a procedure that involves the removal of the faulty natural lens. The process doesn’t stop there. After the damaged natural lens has been removed, the artificial lens made of plastic or silicone will be put in place. This procedure remains the perfect way of helping people to restore their sight. Countless people have undergone cataract surgery and are living fine; their eyes are active. You may be curious to know if the artificial lens would do excellent work just like the natural lens. Of course, it will. Please don’t run with people’s ideas. People can tell you that you don’t need to undergo cataract surgery. Some can advise you to visit a pharmacy and get an eye drop. Please don’t listen to them. When you start seeing cataract symptoms, please call an eye specialist.
Jobs that can cause cataracts
The essence of writing this is to help perhaps those that are involved. If you find your job here, you don’t need to be scared. You only need to look for a means to prevent your eye. However, we’ll be adding some tips on how you can do this job and be safe from getting cataracts. Hence, if you fall into any of these clues, please make sure you focus on the prevention parts we will discuss here.
Welders
Are you a welder? You need to visit an eye specialist to examine your eye. Welders are prone to getting cataracts. Why? The natural lens can get damaged if the ray of light penetrates it. Welding arcs and flames emit intense visible, ultraviolet, and infrared radiation. UV radiation in a welding arc can cause a massive problem to the eye. Exposure to UV radiation can affects the natural lens. And once the natural lens is involved, one may need to undergo cataract surgery. Therefore, welders are advised to get a protective eye shield while working. However, a face shield is different from ordinary eyeglasses. There are face shields that are specially created to prevent UV rays.
Freelancers
Freelancers primarily work on a computer systems. If you are a freelancer, you may likely end up undergoing cataract surgery if you don’t do the needful. Who is a freelancer? A freelancer is a self-employed individual and not necessarily connected to a particular employer long-term. Some of their works are on platforms like freelance.com, Upwork, Fiverr, and people per hour. Their jobs require spending more time on a computer system. The eye lens can develop fault if you’re working on a computer system without using preventive measures. There are anti-glare eyeglasses you can put on to avoid UV rays. Therefore, freelancers who work on a computer system should also be careful. They are prone to getting cataracts.
Industrial workers
Have you ever wondered why industries do provide a face shield for their workers? Of course, they are trying to prevent them from contracting an eye disease. Industrial workers are prone to getting cataracts. Particles and harmful substances do flow in the air in industrial areas. And once the particles penetrate one’s eye, the natural lens can be disturbed. That is why some industries that understand the importance of eye health will not take it easy on their work that doesn’t put on a face shield while working.
Health workers
Health workers do set their eyes on infectious body fluids and waste. That way, they are also prone to getting cataracts. That is why surgeons can’t do without using a face shield. Prolonged exposure to some chemicals can cause cataract formation in the eyes. Chemicals like naphthalene, bendiocarb, potassium isocyanate, ethylene oxide, and osmium tetraoxide can cause cataract formation. Therefore, medical laboratory workers, surgeons, and other health personnel should ensure that they protect their eyes.
Final words
Dear reader, we hope you’ve seen something positive here. We said earlier that the essence of writing this article is not to change your job or tell you to try another career. This write-up is meant to give you a positive vibe on how to prevent your eyes from cataracts. Finally, we are open to receiving questions and contributions regarding this topic.
Related: Top 5 Factors to Consider Before Deciding on LASIK Eye Surgery: Is It Right for You?