According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology more than 150 million people across the country use some form of corrective eyewear; that totals some $15-billion spent on eye care each year. While some eye conditions are more serious than others it’s worth getting each niggle, instance of blurred vision, or difficulty checked out as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential if you’re to protect your eyes, and sight, into your old age.
What causes eye problems?
The simple answer is that there is no simple answer; vision problems are caused by a range of factors, including genetics, age, excessive screen time, and diet, as well as direct damage and gradual degeneration. Your vision is like any other bodily function; if you don’t take care of it, or your general wellbeing, it’s bound to be affected in some way. Take stress, for example. Fatigue can make eyes temporarily blurry, while increased adrenaline can lead to tunnel vision and even hallucinations. A poor diet that’s lacking in essential vitamins and minerals, meanwhile, can starve your body of the energy and nutrients it needs to perform basic functions – including seeing properly. Although not all eye conditions can be cured, a healthy diet, plenty of water, and the correct care can go a long way toward preserving your vision for as long as possible.
Common complaints affecting our vision
So, what are some of the most common complaints affecting our vision? There’s a chance you might experience one or more of these in your lifetime, although some are easy to correct, or manage than others. While the sight challenges accompanying these conditions can be irritating enough, many will cause other symptoms too, such as headaches, confusion, ‘floaters’ and pain. It’s important to have all symptoms and degenerations assessed by a professional, or risk further issues later down the line.
Dry eye and allergies
Modern life and its constant barrage of chemicals, pollutants, and products can be tough on eyes, and allergic reactions that affect vision are relatively common. How many times have you experienced itchy, runny eyes and put it down to an allergy? Dry eyes, meanwhile can be caused by hormonal changes, a dry or windy climate, medication, and age. Both can cause irritation, pain, and loss of perfect vision.
Shortsightedness and long sightedness
Shortsightedness and long sightedness are perhaps the most common eye complaints experienced by Americans. Usually caused by genetics or gradual degeneration, these conditions make it difficult for a patient to see objects at short, or long distances. You might notice that it’s becoming increasingly difficult to see clearly, or experience headaches and pain while trying to focus.
Glaucoma and cataracts
Glaucoma occurs when the optic nerve becomes damaged – often as a result of excess fluid that isn’t draining properly. Affecting people of all ages it can cause permanent vision loss if not diagnosed, and addressed with urgency; its lack of symptoms can make this difficult at first. Cataracts are a common symptom of aging, and cause double vision, faded colors, and flare that’s dazzling, or even uncomfortable to look at. Cataracts aren’t painful.
Solving issues with your vision
The solution to your vision problem will depend upon its cause; while some conditions will correct themselves over time others might require drops or medication, corrective eyewear or surgery. Your doctor or optometrist will be able to discuss your options with you. Although many common eye complaints and conditions are easily treatable with spectacles or lenses it’s sometimes impractical to use this kind of correction. Indeed, physically demanding jobs, lens irritation, or personal preference can often mean that an alternative must be sought. Laser eye surgery is such a solution, offering those with vision impairments the freedom to correct their eyesight without compromise. Minnesota Eye Consultants LASIK Center is just one of the establishments across the country that’s able to carry out such a procedure, offering a fast, safe, and reliable solution to any number of eye conditions and vision problems.
Your eyesight is perhaps your most treasured sense, enabling you to experience, and interact with the world around you. It’s essential that you look after your general health and wellbeing, and report any changes in your vision to a doctor or optometrist as soon as you notice them. While not all issues can be avoided, several conditions are reversible, or at least controllable with early diagnosis and treatment. Look after your eyes, and they’ll look after you
