Many people have problems with their vision that require them to wear glasses or contact lenses so that they can have tools to help them see more clearly.
In some cases, vision problems are genetic, and therefore, there is not much that can be done to prevent those such as astigmatism of the eyes, which affects the vision and requires the patient to wear glasses.
Sometimes that is the case quite early on. However, there are plenty of preventable eye diseases that people must know about so they can keep their eyes functional and free of glasses – or strong glasses anyway. Let’s go over 7 of these eye conditions now that can be prevented.
#7 – Diabetic Retinopathy
This condition happens when the retina of the eye swells up, which obviously will affect vision and the overall health of the eye. This condition is preventable and really it boils down to self-care. Especially if one has been diagnosed with diabetes as uncontrolled blood sugar levels can cause the retina of the eye to swell up.
This means that the patient that has diabetes must get their blood glucose levels monitored carefully daily and to take the prescribed medications to manage it. It means as well to stick to a healthy eating regimen, which also can prevent diabetes in the first place – but not always since genetics can play a role in that. Keeping blood pressure controlled is also another way to prevent this disease.
#6 – Cataracts
The lens of your eye is what allows the rays of light to reach the retina. However, when those lenses are clouded over, the rays of light cannot pass and that can contribute to clouded vision or even blindness. There are several ways to prevent cataracts. One is to take preventative measures from getting diabetes by staying fit and eating healthy. Or if diabetes happens to be in the picture, to do everything possible to get it under control. Also, to stay protected from the sun’s UV rays, and to keep blood pressure monitored. Quitting smoking is also highly recommended as the effects of it can cause this condition as well.
#5 – Glaucoma
This condition is a result of eye fluid levels being out of control. Too much fluid can hurt your optic nerves. The way that this condition can be prevented or managed before blindness takes over is to keep going to the eye doctor to help you manage the pressure of your eyes properly so that you don’t become blind. Therefore, don’t skip appointments even if they are not convenient.
#4 – Macular Degeneration
The macula is in the middle of the retina, and it is the area that senses the lights. However, age-related macular degeneration can be genetic. However, even with that said, it can be managed and may be prevented. What happens is that over time the blood vessels of the tissues in the macula disintegrate and can hurt the vision, which makes those who have it hard to see.
The way this condition can be prevented is by keeping blood pressure and cholesterol levels in check, quitting smoking, and sticking to a healthy diet of fish as well as leafy greens.
#3 – Refractive Errors
Refractive errors represent eye conditions such as astigmatism (as it was mentioned in the introduction), as well as nearsightedness and farsightedness. This can result from the eyeball being improperly shaped, which prevents the light from coming through. As it was mentioned before, this can be genetic and may even play out early in life.
However, it is not always genetic, and it can happen with age. The best thing to do to prevent this or manage is to have annual eye exams from the ages of 18 to 65.
#2 – Dry Eyes Syndrome
This is when your eyes literally dry out, and it isn’t very pleasant when it does. This means your body is not producing many tears, and as a result, you are not going to have the moisture that your eyes need. This causes red eyes, eye tiredness, blurred vision, and light sensitivity in addition to the discomfort.
The one thing to do is to limit screen time as that can contribute to Dry Eye Syndrome, and to not have a fan or air condition blow right into your eyes. Also, go for your annual eye exams, so any issues that could come up with this can be treated right away.
#1 – Conjunctivitis or Pinkeye
This is a condition that you may think that only kids get but adults can as well. This happens when bacteria gets into the lining of your eyes and can cause itchiness, red eyes, teariness, and can cause discharge. This is a very contagious eye condition, but it does not usually cause permanent damage. However, it is very unpleasant.
The best way to prevent this condition is to have good hygiene and to wear goggles while swimming as chlorine can cause the condition, and this is a sure way as well to transfer the infection from someone else in the swimming pool that has it. Unfortunately, air pollution can be a cause as well.
As you can see, these eye conditions can either be prevented or managed if they are treated right away so you can keep your vision and keep your eyes comfortable. Take care of your eye and overall health!
