Warning Signs of Eye Trouble Blurry vision, spots, glare at night, these are common eye complaints that can be harmless annoyances or an early sign of disease. It's not always easy to tell the difference. So be sure to visit an eye doctor promptly about any changes or concerns about your vision. Stye A stye is a tender, red bump that looks like a pimple on or near the edge of the eyelid. It is one type of infection of the eyelids (blepharitis). Styes usually heal in a week. You can use a very warm, wet compress three to six times a day to speed up the recovery. Don’t wear contact lenses or eye makeup until it's healed. Allergies Allergies can give you watery, itchy eyes. Pollen, grass, dust, weeds, and pet dander are common triggers. An allergy doctor can tell you what to avoid. Keep your windows shut at home and in your car. Use special mattress and pillow covers that keep allergens out. Clean your house thoroughly, and use allergen filters in your furnace and air conditioner. Allergy eyedrops, artificial tears, and antihistamines also may help. Keep Up With Your Eye Exams You need regular eye exams all through your life, especially if eye problems run in your family or if you have other risk factors. An eye exam can also find other conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, or even a stroke or brain tumor. Bulging eyes are a sign of thyroid disease, and a yellow tint of the whites of the eyes can be a sign of liver problems. Eye Protection: Sun UV rays can harm your eyes. Over time, getting too much sun can cause cataracts 8-10 years early. Just one long session in the sun can burn your corneas. So wear a hat and sunglasses that block UV rays. You can also add a protective, clear UV blocking film to your car’s side windows. People with light-colored eyes tend to be more sensitive to light. If you're suddenly more sensitive to light than usual, see your eye doctor, since that can be a sign of an eye problem. Protect Your Eyes Grease splatters from a pan, yard debris flies up from the lawn mower, cleaning solution splashes in a bucket. Some of the greatest hazards to your eyes are in your home. Eye care specialists recommend that every household have ANSI-approved protective eyewear. Even if an eye injury seems minor, go to the emergency room right away to check it out. Foods for Eye Health Carrots really are good for your eyes. So are spinach, nuts, oranges, beef, fish, whole grains, and many other foods in a healthy diet. Look for foods with antioxidants such as omega-3 fatty acids; vitamins C, E, and beta-carotene; as well as zinc, lutein, and zeaxanthin. Research shows those nutrients may make age-related macular degeneration less likely. Source
