Top 5 Eye Conditions and How to Prevent Them

You can hardly imagine living with badly impaired eyes, enough reason to care for them to prevent eye conditions. If your daily routine involves risky environments, watch out for these top eye conditions and take the necessary measures to prevent them.

Cataracts

Cataracts are a common eye condition that causes the eye lens to become cloudy, leaving you to experience blurred vision. The clouding of the lens often results from age-related changes. However, it can also occur due to eye injuries, diabetes, and prolonged exposure to UV rays.

You can prevent cataracts by wearing sunglasses outdoors and eating a healthy diet with vitamins and antioxidants. Quitting smoking also restrains the condition. Regular eye checkups are essential. Early detection and treatment of cataracts can prevent blindness.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma can damage the optic nerve. It is a group of eye conditions that lead to irreversible vision loss. The most common type is open-angle glaucoma. It develops slowly over time without showing early symptoms.

Glaucoma risk factors include age, family history, and some medical conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help prevent glaucoma. Exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, and reduce your stress levels. It is vital to have regular eye exams to detect any early signs of glaucoma. Early treatment can help prevent further vision loss.

Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, is a condition that affects the central part of the retina, resulting in distorted or blurred vision. AMD is more common in people over the age of 60. The risk increases with age. The condition develops due to genetics, smoking, poor diet, and prolonged exposure to UV rays.

You can prevent AMD by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and quit smoking. It is vital to wear sunglasses with UV protection outdoors. Regular eye exams are necessary to detect any early signs of AMD. Early treatment can prevent further vision loss.

Dry Eye Syndrome 

Dry eye syndrome is a condition that occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears. It causes discomfort, itching, and redness. It is a common condition that can result from aging and some medications. It can also develop due to medical conditions like autoimmune diseases and diabetes.

Dry eye syndrome is preventable. Taking frequent breaks from screens and avoiding air conditioning and fans blowing directly at the face can prevent the condition. You can also keep your eyes moist by using artificial tears. Maintain good eye hygiene by washing your hands frequently and not rubbing your eyes excessively.

Diabetic Retinopathy 

Diabetic retinopathy is a condition that affects individuals with diabetes. High blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in your retina and cause vision loss. You can prevent the problem by maintaining good blood sugar levels and exercising. 

Eating a healthy diet and taking prescribed medications will help. Regular eye exams are essential to detect any early signs of diabetic retinopathy, as early treatment can prevent further vision loss.

For more about eye conditions, visit Prism Eye Center at our office in Post Falls, Idaho. Call (208) 203-7616 to book an appointment today.