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Sight problems: 5 things not to ignore

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Sight problems: 5 things not to ignore
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The first signs of sight problems generally appear after the age of 45, but younger people can also notice a reduction in their vision. So when should you be concerned, and when should you consult a specialist? Health n Wellness has listed five cases in which you should further investigate possible visual problems.

Fatigue is often the main cause of vision problems, especially at the end of the day. High blood pressure, diabetes and heart problems could be the cause of more severe problems. It is essential that you get into the habit of making appointments with your optician or ophthalmologist in the case of regular sight problems.

1. If you notice a sudden marked reduction in your eyesight

Above all, do not underestimate the situation: in the case of a sudden and marked reduction in just one eye, it could be a sign of giant-cell arteritis, also called Horton’s disease. This inflammation can manifest as headaches, strong pain around the forehead or temples, as well as bouts of fever.

Make an appointment immediately with your ophthalmologist. Describe your symptoms in order to secure an appointment quickly. While waiting, ask for cortisone in the pharmacy to calm the pain.

2. If a black veil appears in the eye

If you notice a black dot, a constant flash or luminous dots disrupting your vision, consult a specialist. It could be the beginning of a detached retina. If caught relatively early, this vision problem is easily avoidable with laser surgery. By contrast, if the retina becomes fully detached, sight will be permanently lost in the eye. 

3. If you have a problem in only one eye

Three concerning possibilities should be considered:
– The pain could be due to acute glaucoma: you will experience very intense headaches, often accompanied by nausea

– Secondly it could be a herpes virus or a ophthalmic shingles (ophthalmic herpes zoster): be vigilant, as redness and pain can spread to the cornea and damage it.

– Be careful not to confuse these symptoms with the third possibility: conjunctivitis, which has no consequences for the future.

lentilles troubles de la vue Docteur Tamalou
© mheim3011/ iStock

4. When one of your eyes is red

If you wear contact lenses and one of your eyes is red, take out the contacts and get to a doctor without delay. The doctor will first check your blood pressure in order to facilitate diagnosis.

5. If something has flown into your eye

Protect your eyes during all DIY activities, gardening and manipulation of chemicals. In fact, small harmful particles can get into and breach the wall of the eye. In the case of chemical burns, immediately wash your face and eyes with clear water or a physiological saline solution for the eyes. Next, go to a medical center.

Never wait until your vision has degenerated to consult a specialist. In general, it is recommended that you go for an eye check up once every two years.

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