4 Ways To Protect Your Eyes As You Age

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Posted by: Missouri Eye Institute in Blog on December 20, 2017

It’s important to protect your eyesight to maintain your quality of life as you age. Between 9% to 12% of all blindness cases in the U.S. are caused by Glaucoma. While Glaucoma and other eye problems such as cataracts can affect Americans as soon as the age of 45.

Although there are many types of eye surgery to protect one’s eyesight, these eye conditions can affect not only your quality of life but also your overall health. For this reason, it’s essential to protect your eyesight as a part of your healthcare. Consider the following ways you can ensure your eyesight stays as great as possible as you age.

1. 1. Know your risk
      Prevention is key when it comes to eye care,
      especially when you’re at higher risk for eye diseases such as Glaucoma. If you’re unsure whether or not your family has a history of eye conditions or other diseases, try to find out. Once you’re aware of your risk for potential conditions, you’ll know what to look out for in the future.

1. 1. Exercise regularly
      Regular exercise has been known to keep more than the body in shape. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, exercising as a part of your lifestyle can reduce your risk of developing eye conditions such as Glaucoma and cataracts.

1. 1. Check your blood pressure
      Regular physicals are necessary for staying healthy as you age. This is especially true if you have a family history of diabetes or high blood pressure. These conditions, when left untreated, can cause various problems including vision loss.

1. Know the warning signs
   Visit an eye doctor immediately if you begin to notice early signs of Glaucoma or any other eye condition. Problems such as hazy vision, double vision, and difficulty seeing in low lighting are often are some of the most common signs you may need Glaucoma treatment. You also want to be on the lookout for flashes of light, eye pain, swelling, and floaters.

It’s important you take care of your eyesight not only when you discover a vision problem, but also before you experience any changes. Prevention is key in the world of healthcare and your vision is a part of that. For more information on preventative eye care and types of eye surgery, contact Missouri Eye Institute today for a consultation.