Focus on Vision

Is taking care of your eyes a part of your regular health routine? If not, it should be. Good vision affects how you work, play, communicate and learn.

While the eye has some protection, vision disorders and eye injury can still occur – sometimes without warning.  Four common vision disorders include:

• Cataract – This disorder occurs when the eye lens grows cloudy.  Exposure to UV radiation increases the likelihood of cataracts.
• Glaucoma – This blinding disorder damages the optic nerve and does not give any warning signs of vision loss.
• Diabetic retinopathy – This disorder damages the blood vessels in the eye.
• Age-related macular degeneration – The leading cause of blindness in older people, this disorder affects the tiny area in the middle of the retina called the macular and destroys the central vision.

In addition, many home, work and recreational activities like mowing, playing sports, or using power tools can present danger to the eye. 

The best way for you to detect, prevent and reverse vision disorders is through annual eye exams. An exam can identify disorders early when treatment is most effective. You should seek medical attention immediately if you notice any loss of sight, pain or other problems. 

Good habits also prevent eye disorders and injury. Good habits include the following:

• Know the eye hazards around you and try to minimize them.
• Wear eye protection when facing eye hazards.
• Wear sunglasses with 99 to 100 percent UVA and UVB protection.

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