The Effects of Smoking on Your Eye Health

Tobacco is well known for its adverse effects on general health, particularly respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. However, few people realize that smoking also affects the health of our eyes, increasing the risk of serious diseases that can compromise vision. So, what are the true impacts of smoking on eye health, and how can we reduce these risks?

Cigarette smoke contains thousands of chemicals, many of which are free radicals. These unstable molecules cause oxidative stress throughout the body, including in the eyes, and accelerate the aging of eye cells. This phenomenon is particularly dangerous for the retina, where oxidative stress can cause irreversible damage.

Risks:

• Premature aging of ocular tissues
• Deterioration in the quality of vision
• Onset of chronic diseases

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye disease that affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision. This condition is one of the leading causes of blindness in older adults. Smokers are up to four times more likely to develop AMD than non-smokers, and the risk increases with age and the amount of tobacco consumed.

Why? Smoking worsens the accumulation of toxic deposits under the retina, impairing macula function and blurring central vision.

A cataract is a clouding of the lens, the eye's natural lens, which causes blurred vision and increased sensitivity to light. Smokers have a risk of developing cataracts about two to three times higher than non-smokers because the toxins in smoke gradually damage the lens.

Warning signs of cataracts:

• Blurred or cloudy vision
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Colors that appear faded or yellowed

Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that damages the blood vessels in the retina. Smoking increases this risk by affecting blood circulation and reducing oxygen supply to retinal tissue. In people with diabetes, smoking can accelerate the progression of diabetic retinopathy, which can lead to total vision loss.

Smoking is also a common cause of dry eye syndrome. Smoke irritates the surface of the eye, causing dryness and redness. This problem is particularly common among passive smokers and people exposed to smoke-prone environments.

Symptoms of tobacco-related dry eye:

• Burning or stinging sensation
• Redness and eye fatigue
• Increased sensitivity to screens

Glaucoma and smoking: an indirect but real link

Glaucoma is a disease characterized by high intraocular pressure, which can damage the optic nerve and lead to progressive vision loss. Although smoking is not a direct cause of glaucoma, it increases the risk factors associated with this condition, including circulation problems and elevated blood pressure.

1. Quitting smoking: This is, of course, the most effective solution. Quitting smoking can significantly reduce the risk of AMD, cataracts, and glaucoma.

2. Eat a diet rich in antioxidants: Nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin E, and zinc can help reduce oxidative stress caused by smoking.

3. Have regular eye exams: A visit to the ophthalmologist every one to two years is recommended to detect early signs of eye disease, especially if you are a current or former smoker.

4. Avoid smoky environments: If you don't smoke but are exposed to secondhand smoke, try to limit contact with environments where smoke is present, as it can also harm your eyes. eyes.

Smoking affects more than just the lungs and heart: it also has direct and serious effects on eye health. By increasing the risk of diseases like AMD, cataracts, and glaucoma, tobacco can cause irreversible damage to vision. The best way to protect your eyes is, of course, to quit smoking, but other preventative measures can also help reduce the risks to your vision. Your eyesight is precious, so preserve it by taking care of your overall health.

Need help or advice to quit smoking? Contact a qualified doctor and find motivation at Tabac Info Service.