Smoking has been known to cause lung and dental issues. However, it also affects your eye health. That’s why Chapel Hill Ophthalmology in Chapel Hill, NC, offers you exceptional treatment for every eye disease. Visit our professional staff to find out how we can help your eye and vision health.
Smoking and Eye Diseases
Uveitis
Uveitis is the inflammation of the middle part of the eye. Smoking can put you at risk of getting this disease. If you are already suffering from Uveitis, it hastens its development. This disease harms the retina and the iris. With time, it can lead to cataracts and retinal detachment.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy can damage the retina’s blood vessels which can result in vision loss. Although patients with diabetes are the only ones who can suffer from diabetic retinopathy, diabetic smokers are at a greater risk of developing this condition than a non-smoker.
The reason being that cigarettes contain chemicals that put you at risk of developing diabetic retinopathy. Moreover, a person who smokes has twice the risk of getting diabetes, unlike one who doesn’t.
Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome develops when your eyes are unable to produce the right amount of tears. It is also caused by producing inadequate tears. Some of the symptoms of dry eye syndrome include itching, eye redness, and feeling foreign objects.
Tobacco smoke can exacerbate the condition causing much irritation. It also affects secondhand smokers, especially those who use contact lenses. Dry eye syndrome can affect your daily living. That’s why you need to visit Chapel Hill Ophthalmology for treatment from our eye doctors.
Infant Eye Disease
Smoking in expectant mothers releases harmful toxins to the placenta that can harm the unborn baby. This can cause infant eye disorders and other health issues. Smoking can also cause strabismus or underdevelopment of the optic nerve in babies. These eye conditions can worsen gradually, causing vision loss.
Visit Chapel Hill Ophthalmology for Quality Eyecare Services
Are you suffering from a smoking-related eye condition? Chapel Hill Ophthalmology offers you effective treatment methods to help you live a healthy and happy life. Visit us today to start your treatment! Call 919-942-8701 to schedule your appointment or to learn more about how we can help.