Cataract is defined by cloudy vision that is common in older adults. The vision blockages worsen over time and can lead to blindness. The most common treatment for cataract is surgery, which caries some risk and side effects. Aside from traditional medicine, however, there are some other options for treating the condition.

The following vitamins, supplements, and natural remedies support healthy eye function and either reduce the risk of getting cataract or slow it’s progression: 

• Pink bark extract is an antioxidant with vein support that helps by improving blood flow to the eye.
• The antioxidant properties of vitamins C and E kill free radicals that can cause damage to the eye.
• Lutein and zeaxanthin are found in spinach, as well as yellow and orange colored fruits and vegetables. They reduce the risk of cataract.
• The flavonoids in berries and basically any red or purple fruits act in the same way as antioxidants.
• Likewise, Bilberry is high in antocyandins. They strengthen veins and blood vessels. They also fight free radicals.
• Ginkgo biloba carries oxygen to the eye and helps cleanse toxins.
• Grape seed extract also prevents the progression of cataracts.

Aside from these items, the best thing to manage cataract is to make lifestyle changes. Avoid smoking and a high fat diet. Pay closer attention to the nutritional value in the foods you eat and make sure to get plenty of fruits and vegetables to get a variety of vitamins and minerals.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is known as a disease that affects the elderly. A damaged retina is a major cause of vision loss in people over 50. The macula is the center of the retina. When it is clouded with cellular debris, the retina becomes detached and the blood vessels are damaged.

The first symptom of AMD is yellow spotting. Even though it doesn’t usually cause blindness on it’s own, it can lead to poor vision. As it advances, the following symptoms may also occur:

• Color changes
• Vision loss
• Impaired side vision
• Shadows
• Trouble going from extreme difference in light and dark environments
• Less contrast
• Wavy images

Though aging is the main cause of AMD, there are other risk factors that can determine who will be affected by it:

• Genetics
• Race
• Heart disease
• Obesity
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• High fat diet
• Stress
• Sun exposure
• Smoking

The most popular treatment method for AMD is the use of FDA approved antiangiogenic drugs. Taking supplements and making lifestyle changes can also help. Lutien and omega-3 fatty acids are helpful, as well as following a heart-healthy diet with less fat and more fish. Furthermore, losing weight and stop smoking can reduce risk factors.

Some simple adjustments can make living with AMD bearable. Getting regular eye exams and updating glasses or contacts can help. As for everyday living, try using a bright light for detailed work, large-print or audio books, a larger computer font, and using a magnifier.

If you have dry eyes you are not alone. In fact, this is a medical condition that plagues millions of people throughout the world. But just because others are dealing with the problem doesn’t mean it any easier on you.

Simply put, dry eyes occur when your tears are unable to provide enough moisture. Subsequently, you begin to get the feeling that your eyes are dry which can lead to discomfort, redness, and scratching.

Many people only experience dry eyes as a result of particular conditions, such as an air conditioned roomed or while staring at a computer screen for an extended period of time.

Fortunately, there are several treatment options for this eye condition. For example, you can use artificial tears when the problem becomes too much for you to handle. Along with this, you may be able to change your lifestyle to protect against this problem.

While not typically the case, if you have a serious case of dry eyes your optometrist may suggest surgery. This is a last resort, but is definitely worth discussing with your doctor should the problem become unbearable.

If you have been unable to cure your dry eyes on your own, schedule an appointment with your optometrist. This will allow you to discuss the problem with a knowledgeable professional, and hopefully receive the treatment you have been looking for.

Dry eyes is a common problem with several potential solutions. Take the time to address this concern in the near future. The right treatment could greatly improve your life.

When it comes time to find a laser eye surgeon, there are sure to be many things going through your mind. Although you may have access to more than one professional in your area, you know one thing to be true: no two surgeons are the same.

Since this is such a big decision, you need to take all the necessary steps along the way. Only then can you choose a surgeon you can trust to provide you with high quality results.

As you begin your search for the right laser eye surgeon, here are several questions to ask:

• Which surgeon has performed the most surgeries over the past one to two years?
• How much knowledge does the person have of the surgery they are performing?
• Is the person local or will I have to travel to have the surgery?
• What is the cost?

Of all these questions, you may gravitate towards the one regarding the cost of laser eye surgery. Despite the fact that you want to save as much money as possible, you are dealing with your health. For this reason, this should only be one of the many details that you consider.

Along with this advice, don’t be shy about asking your optometrist for a referral. Your doctor may be able to point you towards a reputable laser eye surgeon in your area.

Once you find the right surgeon you will know it. From there, you can begin to discuss your situation and whether or not you are a candidate for surgery.

Although most people realize the seriousness of glaucoma, there are some who are unsure of what this could mean to their eye health. This eye disease can be treated, but it is essential to deal with the issue as soon as possible.

It is important to note that glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that can lead to blindness if not treated on time and in the appropriate manner. This is why it is important to regularly visit an optometrist who can check for this disease.

If you have the early onset of glaucoma, your doctor can continue to monitor the issue to ensure that it does not grow into a bigger problem. When and if the time comes, surgery may be scheduled to treat the disease.

Many people are unaware of the fact that glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in the world, including the United States. It is often times a challenge to pinpoint whether or not glaucoma is present since the disease comes on gradually and a loss of vision may not be noticed until it reaches an advanced stage.

Fortunately, early diagnosis can help prevent any damage to the optic nerve. Subsequently, vision loss is not a concern.

If your eye doctor is not testing you for glaucoma, it is time to make a change. It is important that your intraocular pressure is tested at least once a year to ensure that you are not suffering from glaucoma.

As one of the most serious eye health concerns, everybody should be aware of the risks associated with glaucoma.