Many women may not be aware that they face a higher risk of vision loss compared to men. Numerous studies highlight this vulnerability, revealing that women exhibit a greater predisposition to visual impairment than men across various regions and age groups. Shockingly, statistics indicate that 55 per cent of the global population suffering from blindness, totalling 43 million individuals, are women. Similarly, women account for 55 per cent of the 295 million worldwide dealing with moderate to severe vision loss.
Furthermore, as women generally live longer than men, they are susceptible to specific age-related vision issues such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Hormonal fluctuations throughout a woman’s life, from pregnancy to post-menopause, are also linked to certain eye conditions. As women age, hormonal imbalances may contribute to dry eye syndrome, leading to diminished vision, irritation, redness, and discomfort. This underlines the importance of raising awareness about women’s eye health and the unique challenges they may face throughout their lives.
Here are some ways to help protect your vision from damage and prevent your risk of total vision loss:
- Get Regular Checkups:
Regular eye checkups are the foundation of good eye health. Vision changes can occur gradually, and routine checkups help detect issues early on, preventing potential complications. Make it a priority to schedule comprehensive eye exams with your optometrist, especially if you notice any changes in your vision.
- Eat loads of fruits and vegetables:
A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables benefits overall health, including eye health. Nutrients like vitamins A, C, and E, zinc and omega-3 fatty acids contribute to maintaining good eyesight. Include colourful, nutrient-rich foods like spinach, carrots, berries, and citrus fruits in your daily diet.
- Wear Protective Eyewear:
Protective eyewear is essential whether you’re working on a computer, engaging in outdoor activities, or participating in sports. Blue light emitted from digital screens and potential eye injuries can be minimised using appropriate glasses or lenses. Invest in quality eyewear that suits your lifestyle.
- Wear Sunglasses:
Shielding your eyes from harmful UV rays is a simple yet effective way to maintain eye health. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye conditions. Choose sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection and wear them consistently, especially on bright, sunny days.
- No Smoking:
Smoking poses numerous health risks, and its impact extends to eye health. Smoking is linked to an increased risk of age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and optic nerve damage. Quitting smoking is a powerful step towards preserving your vision and overall well-being.
- Pregnant? Here’s what to do:
Anticipating mothers should remain vigilant about potential vision alterations during pregnancy. If women with a diabetes diagnosis are expecting or considering pregnancy, they should undergo a comprehensive, dilated eye examination.
You should contact your eye doctor for more guidance on how to take your eyes. Remember, regular eye examinations are very important for healthy eyes. You can schedule a comprehensive eye examination with Oakes Opticians today. Follow us on social media for updates and tips on healthy vision.