A variety of conditions can impact the health and functionality of our eyes, such as cataracts, glaucoma, and refractive errors. In some cases, your doctor may recommend a surgical procedure to address these issues and to improve vision. As surgical procedures continue to advance, it helps to understand each of the different types of eye surgery, their specific purpose, and what to expect during and after each of the procedures.
Although the negative health effects of drinking alcohol have been well established, nearly 65% of U.S. adults continue to consume alcoholic beverages on a regular basis. Considering there is a direct correlation between health issues and the amount of alcohol consumed, the issue becomes more concerning, knowing that over 25% of U.S. adults report binge drinking (having six or more drinks in a sitting) in the last month. One of the serious, but rarely discussed, alcohol-related health issues is the connection between alcohol and eyesight.
In fact, regular consumption of alcohol has been directly associated with a number of serious short and long-term vision issues that range from blurred vision to damage to the optic nerve, resulting in permanent vision loss.
In the U.S., there were 24.4 million cases of cataracts in 2010, and the number is expected to double to 50 million by 2050, according to the National Eye Institute.
A cataract is a clouding of the crystalline lens inside the eye which leads to a decline in vision. Aging is the most common reason for a cataract, but other factors include disease, trauma, and certain medications. Most cataracts grow slowly over decades, but some may progress more quickly.
The crystalline lens is the structure located in the middle of the eye, in front of the retina, but behind the iris (colored part). All light that enters the eye goes through the cornea and the lens to get to the retina. If a cataract is affecting the lens, distorted vision is the result. Glasses and contacts are unable to correct the vision until the cataract is removed.
“An apple a day keeps the doctor away.”
Or should it be, “A red wine a day keeps cataracts away?’
Yes, really. Research has established a link between low-to-moderate alcohol consumption and reduced risk of cataract formation. Since alcohol is far more often linked to negative health effects, you might want to celebrate this one.
If you’re wondering, does alcohol affect vision, we’re breaking it all down in this guide! Here’s all you need to know.
Are you becoming more sensitive to light and challenged by glare? Experiencing changes in your vision? You may be developing cataracts in eyes.
You’re not alone. The National Eye Institute estimates 50 million Americans will be living with cataracts by 2050.
Following are frequently asked questions about cataracts, and of course, the answers.
