Cigarette smoke harms also the eyes.
Whether you are active or passive smokers and whether you are young or old, you should know that according to the Cancer Association cigarette smoke contains between 4,000 and 7,000 chemicals, including about 350 dangerous substances and about 70 carcinogenic substances.
During smoking these toxins are inhaled into the bloodstream and spread throughout the body, including the eyes, which may lead to eye diseases like dry eye, optic nerve damage, macular degeneration, cataract and even eye cancer.
Exposure to cigarette smoke increases the risk of strabismus and farsightedness in children.
A study published in 2019 in JAMA Network found that among children exposed regularly to smoke, there was significant thinning of the choroid, a layer made of a dense network of blood vessels at the back of the eye.
Sunglasses are essential for maintaining eye health at any age and in any weather.
Melanin pigment in the eye provides natural protection from daily sun exposure.
The pigment absorbs sunlight and disperses most of it without harming the eye.
However, with age, melanin decreases and parts of the eye are more exposed to damage.
Therefore it is important to wear sunglasses in the sun to protect eyes from UV radiation, including cataract, eye cancer, retinal degeneration and more.
Sunglasses should be large and close to the eyes.
Sunglasses quality is important.
Sunglasses whose lenses do not block at least 99% of UVA and UVB radiation may harm more than benefit.
Filtering visible light causes pupil dilation, exposing the eye to UV damage.
Price is not a measure of protection.
Da Vinci and the history of contact lenses.
In 1508 Da Vinci produced the first sketches of contact lenses.
The first lenses appeared at the end of the 19th century and were made of glass covering the entire eye.
Today contact lenses are made of moisture rich materials like hydrogel and silicone hydrogel.
Nearsightedness expected by 2050.
Projections indicate that by 2050 half of the world population will be diagnosed with some degree of myopia.
This is linked to increased screen use and staying in rooms with artificial light only.
Photophobia.
Sensitivity to sunlight, computer light and neon lights may indicate photophobia.
Sometimes it is caused by migraine, dry eye syndrome or certain medications.
Reading in dim light is not harmful.
Before electric light, most reading was done at night.
Reading in dim light is not more harmful than for our ancestors.
Tears protect the eyes.
Tears contain natural antibiotics and lipids providing moisture to the eye.
Newborns and infants.
Tear ducts mature about two weeks after birth.
At age one, it is important to check eyes with pediatric ophthalmologists to ensure no issues like strabismus or lazy eye.
Dry eye in adults.
Lack of quality tears may cause blurred vision, tired eyes, and pain.
Common causes include hormonal changes, smoking and medications.
Treatments include drops, ointments, IPL and plugs.
Blinking.
An average person blinks 10–12 times per minute.
Blinking protects the eye and spreads tears.
Eye drops instead of glasses.
FDA approved Vuity drops to constrict pupils and improve focus.
Effect lasts 6–10 hours.
Do not use at night or in low light.
Smart lenses.
Future technology allows lenses with augmented reality providing data directly to the eyes, allowing photos, internet, and reading emails via blinking.
Vision focus issues in children.
Symptoms like spelling mistakes and slowness may indicate vision focus issues.
Treatment can improve the problem and sometimes avoid Ritalin.
Cleaning lenses.
Lenses collect dirt, grease and makeup.
Wash daily with water and mild soap and dry with soft tissue.
Adjust screen brightness.
In offices mainly lit by artificial light, reduce brightness to 75%.
In natural light, reduce to 45%.
Prefer sitting near windows and go outside occasionally.
Processed diet and vision loss.
A 30 year study found that a diet based on processed meat, fried foods and sugar increases the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
Diets rich in fruits, vegetables and green leafy vegetables reduce risk.
20-20-20 rule.
Every 20 minutes look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Cleaning chemicals.
Using bleach and degreasers may damage the cornea, cause pain and infections.
Wash eyes with running water if exposed and purchase chemicals with safety closure.
Routine eye exams.
Important for early diagnosis and optimal treatment.
Infants, children and adults over 40 should check regularly.
Family medical history.
Some eye diseases are hereditary, such as glaucoma, retinal degeneration, nearsightedness.