When it comes to eyes there are a few problems that can occur. Often these problems arise as we age, but some are quite preventable. Looking after our eyes is important throughout our life as failing eyesight can be a real blight on our lives. There are some lifestyle factors that can affect our eye health. Smokers and those with poor diets for example are more likely to have things wrong with their eyes as they get older. This article will outline all the ways we can help keep our eyes strong and healthy the natural way.
Living a healthy life will ensure your eyes have the best chance of staying healthy. This means you should not smoke, you should limit alcohol and you should eat plenty of fruit and vegetables. This is usually the advice for keeping any health related problem at bay and with the eyes, it is no different. Although it may even seem strange, getting regular exercise can also help. It is an indirect help – if you exercise your body will be strong and healthy. If your body is strong and healthy then so will your eyes be.
Our eyes are under increasing strain as the years progress. Staring at computer screens and televisions for hours on end can cause them to be a bit sore. Have you ever had tired or puffy looking eyes? That could be your eyes’ way of telling you that they need a bit of a break. If you think you are suffering from eye strain then you should take frequent breaks from whatever activity you are doing. You can try a few exercises such as closing your eyes for 10 seconds at a time every now and again. You can also make them follow the hands of an imaginary clock on the wall in front if you want to give them a good workout!
Unfortunately eye problems can occur regardless of measures taken. When we age our eyes can degenerate which can lead to worsening eyesight and other serious problems. The leading cause of visual impairment and blindness in the United States is the result of glaucoma, which affects individuals of all ages. Glaucoma is a disorder of the eye where the optic nerve is damaged and thus permanently damages vision in the eye/eyes that is affected. Sometime eye drops will help if the problem is due to a blockage. If untreated, this condition can lead to blindness so once a diagnosis of glaucoma is given, treatment should start immediately with medical care from a skilled and trained glaucoma doctor.
Studies have shown that there may be some factors that increase a person’s chances of getting glaucoma such as dietary factors, ethnicity, genetics, prolonged use of steroids, severe diabetic retinopathy, ocular trauma and more. Individuals at risk of this disease are advised to have a dilated eye exam once every 2 years however; older patients may be advised to test annually.
If you think you are experiencing some of the symptoms of glaucoma, or just want to learn how to prevent this condition should speak with a knowledgeable glaucoma doctor. With a call to the doctor’s office to set up an appointment you can learn information on diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of glaucoma, whether or not you are at risk, and if you have actually been experiencing symptoms of glaucoma.