The most important thing:
- Structure and function of the eyes
- What are the causes of worsening vision?
- Symptoms of eye problems
- Best eye care and prevention
Vision is a complex process that enables us to experience the world around us. It depends on the ability of the various parts of the eye to work together to convert light from the external environment into electrical signals that the brain interprets as images. Therefore, everyone should strive to take good care of their eye health.
We will examine some of the main causes of worsening vision and how we can tackle them. Most people would prefer to avoid wearing glasses, but that is not always possible. We will look at what we can do for the health of our eyes and what the best preventive measures are.
Physiology of vision
Do you really know how the eyes work and what the mechanism of vision is when we look at an object? In the following lines we will present the sequence of this entire process:
- Light enters the eye from the outside environment through the cornea. Structurally, we know that the iris is the coloured part of the eye and is surrounded by a white part called the sclera. The transparent layer above the iris is the cornea. It focuses the light entering from outside.
- Passing through the pupil: The pupil is the black circle in the centre of the iris. It dilates and contracts to control how much light enters the eye.
- Focusing through the lens: The lens of the eye is located behind the pupil. It is flexible and changes shape to focus light onto the retina at the back of the eye.
- The image reaches the retina: The retina is covered with numerous light-sensitive cells called photoreceptors. They are divided into two main types: rods (for night and peripheral vision) and cones (for daytime and colour vision).
- Conversion into electrical signals: When light reaches the photoreceptors, it is converted into electrical signals. These are then sent to the brain via the optic nerve.
- Interpretation in the brain: The optic nerve transmits signals to the part of the brain responsible for vision. In this way, images are interpreted, which allows us to see.
Vision is not only the result of processes taking place in the eyes and the brain, but also a combination of complex interactions that enable us to understand and react to the world around us. Realising that this is a complex process, we can assume that sometimes the problems we have can be resolved without the use of glasses. But even to this question no definitive answer can be given without knowing the specific cause of the deterioration in vision.
Causes of worsening vision
Vision damage can be caused by various factors, including natural ageing processes, numerous diseases or harmful habits. Understanding these causes can help prevent or manage vision problems. Here are some of the main causes of this condition:
Ageing
As we age, natural changes in the eyes can lead to conditions such as difficulty seeing up close (a condition known as ‘presbyopia’), clouding of the lens (cataract), increased pressure in the eye that can damage the optic nerve (glaucoma) and damage the central part of the retina (macular degeneration).
Refractive errors
A common vision problem occurs when the eye does not refract light correctly, resulting in blurred vision. There are four main refractive errors that affect the eye’s ability to focus light properly: myopia – blurred distance vision while near vision remains clear; hyperopia – blurred near vision while distance vision remains clear; astigmatism – distorted or blurred vision at any distance; presbyopia (the aforementioned ‘old-age farsightedness’) – difficulty focusing on near objects. This condition usually begins to develop around the age of 40.
Diabetic eye damage
This complication develops in people with diabetes, especially those who cannot effectively control their blood sugar levels. It can cause damage to the small blood vessels in the retina, leading to a condition called diabetic retinopathy, which can seriously impair vision.
Ultraviolet light and external factors
Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can cause burns to the surface tissues of the eye, such as the cornea. This can cause pain, redness, irritation, and even temporary or permanent damage to vision. External factors such as dust, particles, wind, etc., can cause trauma and contamination, which also leads to various vision problems.
Insufficient intake of nutrients
A decline in visual function may also be linked to a deficiency of certain nutrients that play a key role in maintaining eye health. The following paragraphs describe some of the most important vitamins, minerals and fatty acids essential for good vision, and how their deficiency can affect the eyes:
- Vitamin A: A deficiency in vitamin A can lead to “night blindness” or difficulty seeing in low light. In more severe cases, it can cause xerophthalmia, a condition that can lead to total blindness if left untreated. Sources of vitamin A include liver, carrots, sweet potatoes and green leafy vegetables.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are important for preventing dry eyes and may help in combating macular degeneration. Fish (especially salmon, mackerel and sardines), flaxseed and walnuts are rich in omega-3.
- Vitamins C and E: These antioxidants help to prevent cell damage and maintain the health of the blood vessels in the eyes. Vitamin C can be found in fruits and vegetables such as oranges, strawberries, red peppers and broccoli, while vitamin E can be found in nuts, seeds and green leafy vegetables.
- Zinc: Zinc plays a key role in transporting vitamin A from the liver to the retina to produce melanin, which is a protective pigment in the eyes. Zinc deficiency can lead to impaired vision, especially in low-light conditions. Rich sources of zinc include meat, nuts and legumes.
- Lutein and astaxanthin: These carotenoids are found in the retina, where they help to protect the eyes from the harmful effects of light and oxidative stress, preventing cell damage. Lutein and astaxanthin are found in green leafy vegetables such as spinach, as well as in eggs.
A healthy balance of these nutrients is crucial for maintaining eye health and can help to prevent or slow the progression of vision loss. Regular consumption of a variety of foods rich in these key nutrients is an important part of maintaining good vision and overall health.
Lifestyles and working environment
Long periods spent in front of screens (computers, phones, tablets) without breaks, combined with inadequate lighting at the workplace, can cause eye strain, blurred vision, dry eyes and long-term damage to your eyesight. Therefore, it is essential to adhere to work-rest schedules and to arrange our workspace so that it is comfortable and will not harm our vision.
Smoking
Smoking increases the risk of developing many eye diseases, including cataracts and glaucoma. Nicotine and other chemicals in tobacco can cause blood clots in blood vessels, including those in the eyes. This can lead to reduced blood flow to the eyes and impaired eye function.
Symptoms
Vision damage can manifest through basic symptoms such as blurred images with poor focus, eye fatigue, headaches and difficulty adapting to changes in lighting. Symptoms also include the need for frequent changes in dioptric power, difficulty seeing at night and sensitivity to light.
What is the best care and prevention for the eyes?
In addition to the recommended lifestyle changes and regular consultations with an ophthalmologist, eye care also includes a daily intake of dietary supplements. When it comes to the health of our eyes, we must trust a reliable manufacturer who can guarantee the quality of the ingredients.
The Neovista Next formula is the best available on the Bulgarian market. It contains lutein, bilberry extract, astaxanthin, zinc, selenium and vitamin C. Neovista Next helps to improve vision and has a positive effect on chronic eye problems. The food supplement supports the normal function of the eyes, both day and night.
Additionally, it is useful for treating tired and dry eyes, especially after prolonged work on a monitor. The active ingredients are carefully selected to support eye health and protect them from various factors that can impair vision and cause eye problems. Prevention is the only way to ensure the health of our eyes, thereby increasing the chances of avoiding or delaying the need for glasses.
In conclusion:
Vision impairment can be caused by various factors, including natural processes such as ageing, refractive errors and diabetic eye disease. A deficiency of certain nutrients also plays a role in eye health. Effective eye care and prevention include lifestyle changes, regular medical check-ups and nutritional supplements.
Choosing reliable supplements is crucial for improving vision and preventing chronic eye problems. Neovista Next stands out as a leading product on the Bulgarian market, with carefully selected active ingredients that support normal eye function and help combat eye fatigue and dryness, especially after long hours in front of a monitor.
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CHZV:
If I wear prescription glasses, can I protect myself from UV rays?
- Yes, prescription glasses can be fitted with a UV coating. This coating blocks the sun’s ultraviolet rays, preventing their harmful effects on the eyes. When choosing prescription glasses, it is advisable to enquire about the availability and quality of the UV coating to ensure the best protection for your eyes.
Can I take Neovista Next every day or only when symptoms appear?
- Yes, one tablet daily after meals with plenty of water. Suitable for long-term use. If necessary, after six months’ use you can take a ten-day break.
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