Eye Health: Are You at Risk for Vision Loss?

The World Health Organization noted that the main causes of vision impairment and blindness around the world are refractive errors and cataracts, with the condition posing a huge global financial burden.???

The annual cost of productivity is estimated to be US$ 411 billion, according to the WHO.??

There are certain risk factors when it comes to your eye health.??

Vision Loss Risk Factors??

One of the common causes of vision loss is older age. Aging also increases the risk of other eye conditions such as glaucoma and cataracts.??

Other risk factors for vision loss include:??

• Diabetes??

• High blood pressure??

• A sedentary lifestyle or inactivity??

• Psoriasis and other autoimmune disorders??

• Shingles??

• Smoking??

• Working with sharp objects or toxic chemicals??

• Premature birth??

If you are concerned that you are at risk for vision loss, it is best to schedule an appointment with an eye doctor. In addition, taking medications for certain conditions that you might have might help.??

It is recommended to have your eyes examined at 6 months old, 3 years old, and every year between 6 and 17 years old.??

How to Take Care of Your Eyes??

Healthy habits and lifestyle go a long way, from your diet to your sleeping routine.??

Here are ways to improve your eyesight:??

• Don’t forget your vitamins and minerals: some vitamins can help prevent macular degeneration such as vitamin A, C, and E, including mineral zinc. These can also be found in certain foods such as sweet potatoes, strawberries, carrots, and spinach among others.??

• Maintain an active lifestyle: being active prevents certain diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure, which can be a factor in vision loss.??

• Wear protection for your eyes: protective eyewear is a must, especially if you are working with sharp objects or toxic chemicals. Sunglasses can also help block UVA and UVB radiation from sunlight.??

• Have screen breaks: screen breaks can help prevent eye strain, especially if you are someone working in front of a screen.??

• Learn your family history: there are eye conditions that can be hereditary such as glaucoma, retinal degeneration, optic atrophy, and age-related macular degeneration.??

If you have doubts about your eye health, it is best to talk to your doctor. Check out iCare’s list of accredited doctors here https://www.insularhealthcare.com.ph/accredited-doctors/?

?

SOURCE:?

https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/surprising-risk-factors-for-vision-loss#:~:text=Inactivity.,your%20risk%20for%20eye%20disease.?

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/blindness-and-visual-impairment?

https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-improve-eyesight#family-history?