Common Eye Diseases Affecting Young Adults

Most Americans suffer from retinal problems as they get older. According to the American Foundation for the Blind, 12% of Americans between the ages of 45 and 64 suffer from some form of vision loss. However, vision problems aren’t limited to older adults. Younger adults should also be aware of the symptoms, causes, treatments and preventive measures for various retinal diseases.

How Can Young Adults Avoid Eye Problems?

There are a number of different reasons that younger adults can suffer from retinal problems. Here are some tips to mitigate the risks.

Exercise Regularly

A 2006 study published in The British Journal of Opthalmology suggests that regular exercise can reduce the risk of developing eye problems. M.D. Knudston of the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, was one of the lead researchers. Knudston said that people that try to keep themselves active may tend to be biologically younger, which could explain the benefits.

Receive Adequate Sleep

Our eyes produce a lot more lubrication during sleep. You will want to make sure that you get plenty of rest every night, because this lubrication helps promote healing.

Use Necessary Contraceptives During Sexual Activity

Gonorrhea, herpes and many other sexually transmitted diseases can lead to eye problems. Therefore, using contraception during sexual activity is extremely important. Of course, even the best contraception isn’t 100% effective, but it’s still much safer than using nothing.

Take a Break from Electronic Devices

The UV light from electronic devices can cause your eyes to deteriorate over time. You will need to give your eyes a break from them occasionally to avoid the damage that they cause.

Eat Fewer Free Radicals

Your diet also plays a very important role in your retinal health. Eating foods that are loaded with sugar, trans fats and other unhealthy byproducts can cause serious damage to your eyes over time. The damage won’t be as immediate as some of the other problems discussed here, but it’s still something that young adults should be aware of.

Avoid Smoking

While cigarette use has declined in recent years, it is still a problem that people need to be aware of. According to a fact sheet from the CDC, approximately 9% of high school students have smoked a cigarette within the past 30 days.  The prevalence among young adults is higher still.

Cigarettes can cause serious damage to your eyes over time, because they can inflame and constrict capillaries near the eyes. You will want to be aware of the risks and stop smoking to avoid developing long term vision problems.

Take Care of Your Retinal Health

Eye diseases may be more likely to affect older adults, but young people aren’t immune from them. You will want to take the steps outlined above to avoid the risks of developing them. If you are worried that you may be starting to develop eye problems, then you should speak with an ophthalmologist in Colorado Springs.