Columbia MO Optometrist Discusses Smoking & Eye Health

Andrew Stone Optometry has provided insightful eye care for patients in Columbia MO and the surrounding communities since 2007. Dr. Andrew Stone is an experienced optometrist who wants you to have clear eyesight for as long as possible. During his exams he may discuss many factors which can affect the health of your eyes. Some eye conditions occur due to natural aging or genetic factors, but patients are often surprised to find that some of their actions may lead to diminished sight. This may be true for patients who don’t wear proper eye protection in the sun, or those who don’t manage health issues properly. One factor you can definitely control is smoking and eye health.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, quitting smoking and avoiding second hand smoke are two of the best investments you can make in the long-term health of your eyes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have clearly linked two of the leading causes of vision loss to smoking. The CDC reports that smokers are twice as likely to develop macular degeneration as nonsmokers, and two to three times more likely to develop cataracts, a clouding of the lens in your eye. These factors should be alarming enough, but there are many other ways smoking can also negatively affect your vision:

• Diabetic Retinopathy: Smokers with diabetes often have increased vision problems. Smoking can lead to changes in the blood vessels within your eyes, which could lead to blindness.

• Dry Eyes: Being around smoke on a constant basis can cause your eyes to become dry, red and scratchy.

• Glaucoma: Smoking can increase your likelihood of developing glaucoma, another potentially devastating eye condition, as you grow older.

Patients who wear contact lenses may find that smoking can dry them out, or make wearing them uncomfortable. Dr. Stone also advises that women who smoke during a pregnancy are more likely to give birth prematurely. This can put their baby at risk for retinopathy of prematurity, a potentially blinding disease.

Smoking Cessation Tips from Our Columbia Optometrist

In addition to the increased risk factors for cataracts and macular degeneration, Dr. Stone believes that every cigarette smoked can increase damage to your vision. It causes a narrowing of the blood vessels, and can reduce the supply of precious blood and oxygen to your eyes. If you are a smoker who visits our eye clinic, our Columbia optometrist will discuss your increased risk factors and provide tips on how to quit.

Learn more about the many ways our eye clinic take care of your family’s vision and eye health. Andrew Stone Optometry is located at 2012 Cherry Hill Drive, Suite 201 in Columbia, MO 65203. Sign up for our complimentary newsletter or “like” our Facebook page to receive regular tips on preserving eye health. Call us today to set an appointment or learn more about smoking and eye health. Keep a healthy eye on the future with Andrew Stone Optometry.