•Priscilia Imade
Our eyes play a role in our daily lives, helping us work, read, drive, and recognise faces.
However, as we age, many adults begin to experience vision problems that can affect their comfort and productivity. Some of these problems develop gradually, while others appear suddenly.
Ignoring eye problems can lead to serious complications, so it is important to recognise the warning signs and take action early.
Some common eye problems among adults and how to manage them include:
1. Difficulty reading printed materials
Many adults struggle to read books, newspapers, the Bible or menus, especially in dim lighting. This is often due to a condition called presbyopia, which happens as the eyes lose their ability to focus on close objects. If you find yourself holding reading materials at arm’s length to see clearly, reading glasses or prescription lenses can help. Good lighting and larger print sizes also make reading easier. You need to visit the Optometrist for a comprehensive eye examination urgently.
2. Blurry vision
Blurry vision can make it difficult to see objects clearly, whether they are close or far away. It can be caused by conditions such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, or eye diseases like cataracts or glaucoma. If you notice that your vision is not as sharp as before, visit an eye doctor for a check-up. Wearing the correct glasses or contact lenses can improve clarity. You need to visit the Optometrist for a comprehensive eye examination urgently.
3. Hazy vision
Some adults experience hazy or cloudy vision, which can make everything look unclear or foggy. This is a common symptom of cataracts, a condition where the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy over time. If left untreated, cataracts can worsen and affect daily activities like driving and reading. Fortunately, cataracts can be treated with surgery, restoring clear vision. You need to visit the Optometrist for a comprehensive eye examination urgently.
4. Dry eyes
Dry eyes occur when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly. This can cause discomfort, redness and a gritty feeling in the eyes. Dry eyes are common in adults who spend long hours on the computer, read for long periods or work in air-conditioned environments. To prevent dry eyes, take breaks from screens, blink often and use artificial tears if necessary. You need to visit the Optometrist for a comprehensive eye examination urgently especially if you are over 40 years of age.
5. Eye strain and fatigue
Many adults spend a lot of time looking at screens, reading or driving, which can lead to eye strain. Symptoms include tired eyes, headaches and difficulty focusing. To reduce eye strain, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Adjusting screen brightness and using proper lighting while reading can also help. You need to visit the Optometrist for a comprehensive eye examination urgently.
6. Floaters and flashes
Some adults notice small, moving spots or strands in their vision, known as floaters. These are usually harmless but can be annoying. However, if floaters are suddenly accompanied by flashes of light, it could be a sign of a serious condition such as retinal detachment. If you experience sudden floaters and flashes, you need to visit the Optometrist for a comprehensive eye examination immediately.
7. Sensitivity to light (Glare Sensitivity)
Some people find it difficult to look at bright lights such as sunlight or car headlights at night. This could be a symptom of dry eyes, migraines or cataracts. Wearing sunglasses during the day and adjusting screen brightness can help reduce discomfort. If the problem persists, visit the Optometrist for a comprehensive eye examination immediately.
8. Watery eyes
Excessive tearing can be caused by allergies, infections or irritation from wind and smoke. While watery eyes help to flush out irritants, constant tearing can be uncomfortable. If your eyes are always watery, an eye doctor can check for underlying causes and recommend the right treatment. You need to visit the Optometrist for a comprehensive eye examination urgently.
9. Double vision
Seeing two images of the same object can make daily activities difficult. Double vision may be caused by issues with the eye muscles, nerve problems or other medical conditions. It is important to visit an eye doctor if you experience double vision, as it could be a sign of a serious health problem. You need to visit the Optometrist for a comprehensive eye examination immediately.
10. Difficulty seeing at night
Some adults find it harder to see in dim light or at night. This condition, known as night blindness, can be caused by aging, Vitamin A deficiency or cataracts. Eating foods rich in vitamin A, such as carrots, leafy greens, taking eye supplements and using anti-glare glasses for night driving can help improve vision in low light. You need to visit the Optometrist for a comprehensive eye examination urgently.
11. Frequent headaches
Frequent headaches, especially after reading or using screens can be a sign of uncorrected vision problems. Straining to see clearly puts extra pressure on the eyes, leading to headaches. If you experience frequent headaches, get your eyes tested to see if you need glasses or a change in prescription. You need to visit the Optometrist for a comprehensive eye examination urgently.
12. One-sided headache
Some adults experience headaches that affect only one side of the head often accompanied by eye pain. This could be a sign of migraine, eye strain or even glaucoma. If you frequently have one-sided headaches along with vision problems, consult an eye doctor to rule out serious conditions.You need to visit the Optometrist for a comprehensive eye examination urgently.
13. Changes in colour vision
Some adults notice that colours appear faded or that it is difficult to distinguish between certain colours. This could be a sign of aging, eye diseases like cataract, glaucoma or even side effects from medication. If you experience changes in colour vision, you need to visit the Optometrist for a comprehensive eye examination urgently.
How to protect your eyes as you age
• Get regular eye check-ups, even if you do not have vision problems.
• Take breaks from screens to reduce eye strain.
• Eat a healthy diet rich in vitamins A, C and E to support eye health.
• Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.
• Use proper lighting when reading or working.
• Avoid rubbing your eyes to prevent infections.
• Seek medical attention if you notice sudden changes in vision.
Eye problems can affect daily life and overall well-being but many of them can be prevented or managed with proper care. By paying attention to changes in vision and taking simple steps to protect your eyes, you can enjoy clear sight for years to come. If you experience any persistent eye symptoms especially if you are over the age of 40, do not ignore them, visit the Optometrist for a comprehensive eye examination urgently.
*Dr Priscilia Imade is CEO, Modern Eye Clinic, Lagos. E-mail: moderneyecliniclagos@gmail.com
Another edition of the column returns on Monday in The Frontier.
EDITOR’S NOTE:
Dr Priscilia Imade (OD, MSc, FAAO, FNOA) recently authored a book titled, “COMMON EYE SYMPTOMS, Understanding Prevention and Care”.
In the book, she explored the most frequent eye complaints people experience, what they mean, their possible causes and how to manage them effectively.The book provides simple explanations to help you understand your eye health better.
You will find practical tips on prevention, care and home remedies that can help relieve discomfort. Most importantly, you will learn when to seek professional help from an optometrist to prevent complications.
For this week only, she is giving away this new book for FREE to all readers of The Frontier who will visit Modern Eye Clinic, Lagos. Plus, a 10% discount on your eye examination and up to 20% off eyewear when you book your appointment today!
Interested readers can call 0905-556-0532, 0803-333-6672.
