The structure of the eye is a highly complex one, with layering at each level. An eye infection or an eye problem can arise in any of these layering which are also accompanied by various divisions, spreading the risk of eye problems to a broader base. As people age, eye problems become more and more likely, and they are very common as it is. When eye problems are relatively mild, we commonly tend to ignore them. However, such should not be the case. If you experience even the slightest of all eye problems, it is always better to get a consultation from a doctor.
Here are some of the most common eye problems there are, and ways you can employ in order to avoid these common eye problems.
Cataract is a very common eye problem, which refers to a clouding in the lens of the eye. Cataracts are more common among the elderly and can be quite taxing on the vision causing severe blurriness. Statistics show that in the United States of America around 3 million people undergo a cataracts procedure yearly, making cataracts surgery one of the most commonly performed surgeries in the country. This very common eye problem arises as people age and the proteins called crystalins, present in the eye, begin to stick together in a certain part of the lens, leading to blurriness and cloudiness in an otherwise normal lens which is supposed to be clear and transparent.
Cataracts can be avoided by taking a few simple measures. Try keeping your eyes covered from UV rays by wearing sunglasses and a hat with a brim when out under the bright scorching sun. Also, a link has been established as per research, on smoking the increase in risk of cataracts. If you are a smoker you can decrease your chances of developing cataracts by quitting. Furthermore, vitamin C and E and antioxidants found profoundly in fruits and vegetables have shown to prevent cataracts as well.
The conjunctiva is basically a thin layer of tissue that covers the lower part of the eye including the lower eye lid, and conjunctivitis is a very common eye problem that occurs when the conjunctiva suffers inflammation. Some of the common causes of conjunctivitis are viruses, allergies and bacteria. This common eye problem of conjunctivitis displays some very strong visible symptoms such as redness, yellow or white discharge, itching, watering and burning in the eye. Conjunctivitis can be of two kinds, either bacterial or viral, whereby bacterial can be treated with the help of antibiotics and viral needs to be left to clear out on its own.
Conjunctivitis can be avoided by keeping the eye region clean all the time. Wash your eyes with plain water thoroughly several times a day and prevent the eyes from catching dust. Also, avoid rubbing or touching the eyes too frequently and make sure to change towels and pillow cases as much as needed.
Glaucoma is yet another common eye problem which is mostly associated with age and diabetes. This eye problem occurs due to optic nerve damage, and is characterized by what is called an increase in intraocular pressure which signifies a blockage in the eye which prevents the drainage of old fluids out of it.
Glaucoma can be avoided by strengthening the optic nerves by supplementing them with all the essentials they need. Try to include an adequate dosage f omega 3’s in your diet along with lutein and zeaxanthin, which areantioxidants that can be found in leafy green vegetables and are amazing for eye health.
Macular degeneration is also another common eye problem which affects the macula, that is, a part of the retina that plays the key role of perceiving light. Macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness. Age related macular degeneration is one of the most common eye problems and can be caused due to excessive pressure being exerted on either one or both the eyes, leading to deterioration.
Macular degeneration can be prevented by the intake of a wholesome healthy diet rich in certain nutrients. Consume a diet that is high in antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin found in leafy greens, omega 3’s found in abundance in fish and consume a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol as that has the potential of hampering flood flow in the eye. Furthermore, by avoiding smoking and steering clear from UV rays you can lower your risk of developing the very common eye problem of macular degeneration.
Dry eyes are yet another very common eye problem that can be a cause of great irritation to the eye. The American Optometric Association reports for 65% of the ageing population in America to be cursed with the very common eye problem of dry eyes. Dry eyes are primarily caused due to a lack of production of tears, or a problem where the tears evaporate too soon or whey they just do not spread evenly enough across the eyes.
Dry eyes can be prevented with the help of artificial tears, but if the condition is too severe then medication prescribed by a doctor may be required. Dry eyes can be avoided by being careful while reading and taking breaks often in the middle so that you do not end up not blinking for too long, which can have the effect of preventing the fluid from spreading evenly across the eyes. Furthermore, you can avoid dry eyes by drinking a sufficient amount of water, staying away from irritants and pollutants and refrain from using anti-redness drops for the eyes as they have the side effect of drying the eyes out.
