A study by Prevent Blindness, titled, “The Future of Vision: Forecasting the Prevalence and Costs of Vision Problems,” revealed that women make up the majority of the 4.4 million Americans age 40 and older who are visually impaired or blind. Women are at higher risk than men for eye-related diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts and age related macular degeneration (AMD). This is because women typically have longer life spans, undergo frequent hormonal fluctuations, and are more likely to suffer from diabetes and autoimmune disorders, which can also impact eyesight.
Though statistically speaking women are more likely to experience vision loss, there are ways to prevent it. The following are 7 things women can do to protect their eye health.
1. Eat Smart
Eating a balanced diet is a great place to start. Research shows that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, particularly dark leafy greens, is great for eye health. The National Eye Institute also reports that omega-3 fatty acids, found in salmon, tuna, and halibut, promote the development and repair of retinal tissue.
2. Stay Active
Being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing diabetes and other conditions that can lead to vision loss. In addition to eating a healthy diet, it’s important be active in order to maintain a healthy weight.
3. Know Your Family History
Genetics play an important role in eye health. Knowing your family history will help determine if you are at higher risk for developing an eye disease or condition. If a parent or family member has a condition like AMD, inform your doctor so he/she can be on the lookout for early symptoms.
4. Don’t Smoke!
There are many reasons why you shouldn’t smoke; yes, smoking increases your risk for cancer and heart disease, but it’s also proven to be directly related to AMD. In addition, it puts you at higher risk for developing cataracts and enhances problems with dry eyes.
5. Protect Your Eyes from the Sun
The skin around your eyes is some of the most sensitive skin on your body. It’s important to protect your eyes and the skin around them with sunglasses and sunscreen to prevent UV damage.
6. Get Routine Eye Exams
Your doctor is the expert! Long before you notice any symptoms, your doctor can most likely detect cellular deterioration with a simple eye exam. Don’t forget to schedule regular checkups so symptoms don’t go unnoticed.
7. Follow Contact Lens Instructions
If you wear contact lenses, be sure to wash your hands in order to prevent infection. Also, always replace contact lenses when appropriate.
Although genetics do play into eye health, there are a few things women can do to prevent eye damage. Eating a healthy diet, wearing UV blocking eyewear, and scheduling regular eye exams are a few very important ways to protect eye health.
*The information in this article is not a substitute for medical advice. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses. Please consult a doctor with questions or concerns. (Source: http://www.securitylife.com/blog-detail/the-spark-news/2016/05/13/7-ways-women-can-protect-their-eyesight)
7 Ways Women Can Protect Their Eyesight
A study by Prevent Blindness, titled, “The Future of Vision: Forecasting the Prevalence and Costs of Vision Problems,” revealed that women make up the majority of the 4.4 million Americans age 40 and older who are visually impaired or blind. Women are at higher risk than men for eye-related diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts and age related macular degeneration (AMD). This is because women typically have longer life spans, undergo frequent hormonal fluctuations, and are more likely to suffer from diabetes and autoimmune disorders, which can also impact eyesight.
Though statistically speaking women are more likely to experience vision loss, there are ways to prevent it. The following are 7 things women can do to protect their eye health.
1. Eat Smart
Eating a balanced diet is a great place to start. Research shows that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, particularly dark leafy greens, is great for eye health. The National Eye Institute also reports that omega-3 fatty acids, found in salmon, tuna, and halibut, promote the development and repair of retinal tissue.
2. Stay Active
Being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing diabetes and other conditions that can lead to vision loss. In addition to eating a healthy diet, it’s important be active in order to maintain a healthy weight.
3. Know Your Family History
Genetics play an important role in eye health. Knowing your family history will help determine if you are at higher risk for developing an eye disease or condition. If a parent or family member has a condition like AMD, inform your doctor so he/she can be on the lookout for early symptoms.
4. Don’t Smoke!
There are many reasons why you shouldn’t smoke; yes, smoking increases your risk for cancer and heart disease, but it’s also proven to be directly related to AMD. In addition, it puts you at higher risk for developing cataracts and enhances problems with dry eyes.
5. Protect Your Eyes from the Sun
The skin around your eyes is some of the most sensitive skin on your body. It’s important to protect your eyes and the skin around them with sunglasses and sunscreen to prevent UV damage.
6. Get Routine Eye Exams
Your doctor is the expert! Long before you notice any symptoms, your doctor can most likely detect cellular deterioration with a simple eye exam. Don’t forget to schedule regular checkups so symptoms don’t go unnoticed.
7. Follow Contact Lens Instructions
If you wear contact lenses, be sure to wash your hands in order to prevent infection. Also, always replace contact lenses when appropriate.
Although genetics do play into eye health, there are a few things women can do to prevent eye damage. Eating a healthy diet, wearing UV blocking eyewear, and scheduling regular eye exams are a few very important ways to protect eye health.
*The information in this article is not a substitute for medical advice. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses. Please consult a doctor with questions or concerns. (Source: http://www.securitylife.com/blog-detail/the-spark-news/2016/05/13/7-ways-women-can-protect-their-eyesight)
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