Learn How to Protect Your Eyes

6. Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in the USA

Preventing diabetes is the most effective way to avoid diabetic retinopathy, which has been found to be the most common cause of blindness in the United States. In fact, 60% of patients with Type II diabetes will end up developing it, while almost all people with Type I diabetes end up developing it.

Even though no symptoms appear during its early stages, it is very important to catch retinopathy as early as can be. With time, your vision may blur and you could even end up completely blind. Controlling blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure can prevent it from getting worse. This condition can be treated through laser surgery, which can lessen the chances of further blindness.

7. After 60, macular degeneration is a major cause of blindness

Macular degeneration takes place when eye tissue begins to degenerate, leading to blurriness or loss of vision in the center of the eye. There are two distinct types of macular degeneration: dry and wet. If vision loss is caused by retinal fluid, then eye injections can treat it.

Unfortunately, most cases are dry, for which no treatment is available. Risk factors for macular degeneration include smoking, a family history of the condition, lutein and zeaxanthin deficiencies, and not wearing sunglasses.

8. Cataracts are common but highly treatable

Cataracts are a typical part of aging and usually appear around the age of sixty. Typical signs of a cataract include seeing faded colors, blurred vision, glare, double vision, and reduced night vision. Cataracts are linked to exposure to UV radiation or certain types of radiation therapy, such as the ones used in cancer treatment. Certain drugs such as prednisone may also increase the risk of cataract development. Luckily, cataracts are often very easy to cure.

9. Damage to the optic nerve causes glaucoma

Glaucoma is renowned for being secretive and insidious, and the only way to detect it is through an eye test. It occurs when pressure builds up and starts to harm the optic nerve. The condition progresses very slowly, Loomis says, and it can take years for the nerve damage to become severe enough to cause vision problems.

The risk is higher for diabetics or those with a family history. In most cases, treatment includes a daily eye drop to reduce eye pressure. If the drops fail to provide any tangible improvement, then surgery may be the only choice left.

10. Your eyes tell a lot about your health

Your eyes actually act as an indicator of your overall health condition. Dry eyes can be symptomatic of lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or even thyroid disease. Blurred vision could be indicative of diabetes or a tumor, and itchy eyes may be caused by an allergic reaction to contact lenses.