Smoking harms your eyes just as much as it harms the rest of your body, increasing your risk of serious eye conditions that can lead to vision loss or blindness. Two major threats to your eyesight are macular degeneration and cataracts. Macular degeneration, or age-related macular degeneration (AMD), affects central vision, which is essential for tasks like reading, recognizing faces, and driving. AMD starts in its dry form but can progress to the wet form, causing rapid vision loss if untreated. Cataracts cause blurry vision that worsens over time, and without surgery, they can result in severe vision impairment. The best way to protect your eyes from smoking-related damage is to quit or never start smoking.
Symptoms of Eye Diseases Related to Smoking
Symptoms of AMD may include:
- Blurred vision or a blurry spot in your central vision
- The need for more light to read or do other tasks
- Straight lines that look wavy
- Trouble recognizing faces
How Does Smoking Affect Your Eyes?
Smoking causes changes in the eyes that may result in vision loss. If you smoke:
- You are twice as likely to develop AMD compared with a people who do not smoke.2,8
- You are two to three times more likely to develop cataracts compared with a people who do not smoke.
Smoking not only harms your overall health but also puts your vision at serious risk, leading to conditions like macular degeneration and cataracts. By choosing to quit smoking, you can protect your eyes and your health, ensuring a clearer, brighter future. Take control of your well-being today—embrace a healthier, more mindful lifestyle, and make the choice to live tobacco-free. Your body, mind, and eyes will thank you.
**By prioritizing the health and safety of its young residents, Minnesota is investing in a brighter, healthier future for all.**
Reference: https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/diseases/vision-loss-blindness.html
