Are You Susceptible to Vision Loss?

As we go about our daily lives, vision plays an indispensable role in helping us navigate through different environments, read, work, and enjoy various activities. Unfortunately, many people take their vision for granted and do not prioritize eye health until it’s too late. However, many eye conditions can develop over time, leading to varying degrees of vision loss that can ultimately impact one’s quality of life.

In this blog post, we will discuss the common causes of vision loss, how to prevent blindness, whether certain eye diseases are inherited, and why it’s crucial to schedule regular eye exams with Spindel Eye Associates.

Common Causes (And Risks) of Vision Loss

Cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration are the leading causes of vision loss in adults. Cataracts typically develop slowly over time, causing the lens of the eye to become cloudy and eventually impacting vision. Glaucoma occurs when damage to the optic nerve causes gradual vision loss, and it is often linked to high intraocular pressure. Diabetic retinopathy is a complication associated with diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision loss and possible blindness. Age-related macular degeneration, which usually affects older adults, is caused by damage to the macula – the part of the retina responsible for central vision.

How to Prevent Blindness

While some eye conditions may be preventable, others may be hereditary or linked to other health factors such as diabetes or high blood pressure. However, there are several things you can do to minimize your risk of vision loss, including:

• Eating healthy, well-balanced diet rich in nutrients that support eye health, such as vitamin C, E, and zinc.
• Wearing protective eyewear when engaging in activities that can cause eye injury.
• Quitting smoking, which can increase the risk of vision loss and other eye diseases.
• Managing underlying health conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
• Scheduling regular eye exams to detect and treat any eye problems early on.

Are Certain Eye Diseases Inherited?

Some eye diseases may be inherited, such as glaucoma, color blindness, and certain types of macular degeneration. However, not all eye diseases are always passed down from parent to child, and gender may also play a role. For example, glaucoma is more common in women than men, while color blindness is more common in men than women. If you have a family history of eye disease, it’s important to inform your eye doctor so they can monitor your eyes closely and take any necessary preventative measures.

Contact Spindel Eye Associates Today

At Spindel Eye Associates, we understand that your vision is essential to your overall health and well-being. That’s why we offer comprehensive eye exams to detect and treat a wide range of eye conditions, as well as personalized treatment plans to meet your unique needs. With our state-of-the-art technology and experienced eye doctors, you can trust that your eyes are in good hands.

If you’re in the Derry, Raymond, or Windham, NH area, contact Spindel Eye Associates today at 603-421-6536 to schedule an appointment and prioritize your eye health.