A cigarette contains around 4,000 active, toxic compounds, including formaldehyde, carbon monoxide and tar. Medical researchers have irrefutably established the harmful effects of cigarettes on your heart and lungs. However, did you know that smoking is also a major risk factor for many eye conditions?
In today’s post, your trusted eye doctor explains how cigarette smoking affects your eye health.
Smoking and Cataracts
Smoking has been identified as a sight-threatening habit. In fact, smokers are more likely to get cataracts, the current top cause of vision loss in the world. Cataracts happen when tissues or proteins in your eye disintegrate and deposit on your lenses. Studies show that tobacco chemicals contribute to the production of free radicals in your eyes. As a result, the rates of cell breakdown and cataract formation in your eyes increases.
Smoking and Dry Eyes
Dry eyes is another common complication of smoking. Cigarette substances deteriorate your tear film’s lipid layer, which helps prevent the rapid evaporation of tears in your eyes. This is why most smokers have red, irritated, and itchy eyes. We may perform an eye exam to determine appropriate dry eye treatments. This may include applying artificial eye drops or inserting punctal plugs.
Smoking and Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration involves deterioration of your macula, which plays a large role in central vision. While it usually develops during your adult years, this condition may happen earlier for those who smoke regularly. Cigarettes contain vasoconstricting substances that may compromise blood flow to your retina, resulting in this disease’s progression.
Start the year right by stopping smoking and other sight-threatening habits. For reliable eye care management, turn to Opti-Care. Apart from eye disease management, we offer high-quality eyeglasses, comprehensive eye exams, and more. Call us at (410) 600-3173 to request an appointment. We serve Westminster and nearby MD communities.