What To Do If You’re Concerned About Declining Eyesight

Approximately 2.2 billion individuals globally suffer from some form of vision impairment, as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO). The aging process naturally affects our eyesight. As we get older, the lenses in our eyes lose elasticity, making it challenging to focus on objects at various distances. However, vision issues are not exclusive to the elderly population.

Conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, diabetes, high cholesterol, and other diseases can also contribute to vision loss.

Understanding the causes of deteriorating eyesight, we need to explore actions to take if experiencing such concerns.

1. Consult A Doctor

If you notice a decline in your eyesight, it is crucial to seek medical advice.

Your first step should be scheduling an appointment with an eye specialist for a comprehensive evaluation of your eyes. The doctor will assess your vision and determine if any corrective measures are necessary.

In some cases, you may require prescription glasses or contact lenses to enhance or maintain your vision. It is advisable to have a copy of your eyewear prescription on hand when purchasing glasses or contacts.

Regular eye check-ups are recommended, even if you believe your vision is unaffected, as they aid in monitoring any changes in your visual acuity and enable early detection of potential issues.

2. Obtain Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses

Upon noticing worsening eyesight, consult with your physician. They can recommend suitable eyewear to improve your vision. If glasses are not deemed necessary, a referral to an eye specialist for further evaluation may be suggested.

Following an eye examination, visit an optical store to acquire the prescribed eyeglasses. Depending on your eye health, the eye doctor will suggest specific types of glasses or contact lenses. The store will assist in selecting the appropriate eyewear from a range of frames and lens styles.

3. Adjust Your Diet

Research indicates that a diet rich in dark leafy greens and whole grains can enhance vision, while consumption of sugary and high-fat foods can have a negative impact on eyesight.

Opt for fresh fruits and vegetables, especially dark leafy greens, over processed foods. Incorporate fish, nuts, seeds, and legumes into your diet as they are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids.

Omega-3 fatty acids possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help prevent optic nerve damage and macular degeneration, a significant cause of blindness in individuals over 50 years old.

4. Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Consider quitting smoking and reducing alcohol intake if you observe a decline in your eyesight. Cigarette smoke contains carbon monoxide, which can diminish oxygen supply to the retina.

Statistics from the WHO reveal that tobacco is responsible for over eight million deaths globally, with smoking playing a significant role in this toll. Apart from the risk of mortality, smoking poses a threat to eyesight and overall vision.

Alcohol consumption contributes to eye-related issues by causing dehydration, leading to dry eyes and corneal ulcers.

5. Regularly Wear Your Glasses or Lenses and Schedule Routine Eye Exams

Consistently wear your glasses or contact lenses, even if you find them bothersome or obstructive. Regular usage is key to maintaining stable vision.

Follow up with your optometrist to determine the necessity for a new prescription, typically recommended every two years.

While perfect eyesight may not be permanent, adhering to these suggestions can help preserve your vision quality. Vision correction glasses or lenses may be necessary to ensure optimal eye health, especially given that the National Eye Institute states a significant proportion of American adults are at risk of vision loss.