How to protect your eyesight and a warning about some eyedrops

As you age, your eyesight often deteriorates, particularly for seeing things up close and distinguishing colors. Unfortunately, Medicare does not cover most vision care. The National Institute on Aging offers practical advice on what you can do to protect your eyesight. And, the CDC issues a warning about some eyedrops that are causing severe eye problems.

Warning: The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends you stop using EzriCare Artificial Tears, Delsam Pharma’s Artificial Tears, and Delsam Pharma’s Artificial Ointment.  These eye drops, manufactured in India, might have been contaminated with rare drug-resistant bacteria. As a result, they might have caused three people  to die and dozens of others to get eye infections that caused vision loss .  Also, keep in mind that taking some prescription drugs can affect your eyesight.

How to improve your vision: Usually, glasses, contact lenses and better lighting can help you see better as you age. But, you are also at risk of eye diseases. So, you want to continue to get eye exams to protect your vision to prevent vision loss.

Eye care at the doctor’s office:  Be sure to get a dilated eye exam every year or two years, especially if you have diabetes or high blood pressure.A dilated eye exam allows the eye doctor to look inside your eyes.

How to protect your eyes: Wear sunglasses that keep the ultraviolet rays out as well as a big hat, don’t smoke, be active, keep your blood pressure normal, and don’t spend too much time in front of a computer without a break.

Eye problems that can cause you to go blind or lose your vision:

• Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
• Diabetic retinopathy may occur if you have diabetes.
• Cataracts cause blurred vision. Cataract surgery can improve your vision and is safe. Medicare covers this treatment.
• Glaucoma can lead to vision loss if it goes untreated. It can be treated with surgery or prescription eyedrops.
• Dry eye resulting from blocked tear glands. Your eyes could sting or burn. Home humidifiers or air purifiers as well as special eye drops or ointments can help.

If you are looking for free and low-cost options for vision care, click here.

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