Preventing Vision Loss

Regular eye examinations, using prescribed medications (as in the case of glaucoma), and following your eye doctor's recommendations are important.?

Some eye conditions and diseases are hereditary and family members may need to be regularly monitored by a general physician and eye care doctor.

Speak with your doctor about how you might protect your eyes from ultraviolet light.? If you are thinking of trying a new diet or changing vitamins, check with your doctor first.? In terms of smoking, the Royal National Institute for the Blind [link opens in new window] in the UK urges: "Do not take up smoking, and if you do smoke, stop!? Tobacco chemicals damage the blood vessels behind your eyes, and increase your risk of developing age-related macular degeneration, and are also associated with other eye diseases including cataracts."