Vision is one of our most precious senses, but we often take it for granted until something changes. Whether you're nearsighted, farsighted or have perfect vision, watching for the warning signs of eye problems is crucial. Here are some changes in your vision that you should watch for and discuss with your optometrist.
Blurred or distorted vision
Blurred vision can indicate several eye conditions, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism or presbyopia. If you notice that you're having trouble seeing clearly near or far, it's time to consult a professional. Distorted vision, where straight lines appear wavy, could be a sign of macular degeneration, a more severe condition requiring immediate attention.
Difficulty seeing at night
If you notice a decrease in your ability to see in low-light conditions or at night, it could indicate a problem with your eyes. Nyctalopia, or night blindness, can be caused by various conditions such as cataracts, vitamin A deficiency, or retinal problems.
Light sensitivity
Increased sensitivity to light, or photophobia, can be a sign of various eye problems, such as inflammation of the iris (iritis), an eye infection, or even the onset of a migraine. A consultation with your optometrist can help determine the underlying cause.
Floaters and flashes of light
Floaters are specks or threads that drift into your field of vision, particularly visible when looking at a bright background. Although often harmless, a sudden increase in floaters accompanied by flashes of light can be a sign of retinal detachment, a medical emergency requiring prompt intervention is needed.
Eye pain and redness
Eye pain is never normal. If it's accompanied by redness, blurred vision or loss of vision, it's crucial to consult a medical professional immediately. These symptoms may indicate infection, inflammation, glaucoma or other serious conditions.
Double vision
Double vision, or diplopia, can be caused by several factors, ranging from benign eye problems like muscle weakness to more serious conditions like stroke or brain tumour. If you experience double vision, you must consult an optometrist or physician immediately.
Colour changes
Changes in colour perception can be a sign of various eye problems. For example, cataracts can give a yellowish tint to what you see, while optic nerve disorders can affect your ability to differentiate colours.
Tips for maintaining good eye health
To prevent these problems and maintain good eye health, follow these tips:
- Have regular eye examinations: See your optometrist at least once a year, even if you have no symptoms.
- Protect your eyes: Wear UV-protective sunglasses and safety goggles when working with tools or chemicals.
- Eat a healthy diet: Eat foods rich in vitamins A, C, E and omega-3 to support eye health.
- Avoid eyestrain: Take regular breaks when using computers or reading to avoid eyestrain.
Your vision is essential to your quality of life, and it's important to remain vigilant for changes that could indicate a problem. By carefully monitoring your eyesight and consulting your optometrist regularly, you can detect and treat any potential problems early, ensuring clear, healthy vision for years to come.
