Here are two straight-forward questions with answers that aren’t as simple as you may initially think:
- Does your eyesight seem to be getting worse?
- If so, why do you think?
Most people would answer, “Yes” and “Because I’m getting older”. But here’s some good news: Although almost half of the people with a visual disability are 65 or older, many of those disabilities are preventable. There are steps you can take to care for your vision, and there are also new treatments that can slow or reverse many eye issues.
Dry Eyes
The more you soak up screen time, the more it will dry out your eyes. That’s not just on smartphones and computers, but also TVs. Our eyes blink about HALF as much while staring at a screen. And with less blinking comes less our lashes remove dirt and debris from the eye, and less moistening of the lens. The solution? Give yourself more screen breaks and use a preservative-free moistening eye drop throughout the day.
Reduced Night Vision
The pupil dilates at night, so vision problems become more apparent after dark. It might be as simple as uncorrected nearsightedness. With a basic eye exam, your ophthalmologist can help you find out if new glasses or contact lens prescription is the solution or if your issue is something more serious, like cataracts, a clouding of the lens.
Double Vision
Take one hand and cover one eye. If the symptom is still there, the double vision could be the result of dry eyes and lubricating drops will solve the problem. But if the symptom disappears when you close one eye, it could be an indication of a stroke or a nerve palsy. Make an appointment to see your eye doctor as soon as possible.
Your eyecare is an essential part of your overall healthcare. A simple low-cost vision plan from your association and AMBA are more important than ever. Learn more online at www.AMBAdentalvision.com or call (866)979-0497 and find out how you can help keep your eyes healthy while saving hundreds on exams, eyeglasses, and contacts.
