From the day you donned your first pair of prescription glasses, you’ve probably been wondering about the very cause of your poor eyesight. Did you not eat enough carrots and leafy greens, or does it all boil down to your mom’s or dad’s genetics?
In recent studies, doctors have determined that glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration – two of the most common and severe types of eye diseases among adults – are often inherited. Furthermore, researchers have also discovered genetic links for other eye diseases, including strabismus and retinitis pigmentosa.
Common eye conditions such as myopia (nearsightedness) and hyperopia (farsightedness) are caused by inherited genetic markers in most instances. In fact, individuals with a genetic predisposition toward refractive errors are up to 10 times more likely to develop those conditions according to Asian Scientist.
If your family has a long history of these conditions, make sure to consult with your optometrist on a regular basis to properly address the situation and help you come up with long-term solutions.
While it’s not possible to control your genetics, there are simple practices that you can do to promote healthier eyesight. Day-to-day activities like eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water and getting a good night’s sleep can do wonders for your vision and eye health. For example, a diet rich in fruits and green vegetables can help prevent age-related eye disorders while staying hydrated at all times can prevent dry eye symptoms.
Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry is a vision care clinic specializing in a wide range of eye care solutions, including annual eye exams, myopia control and LASIK eye surgery. Our dedicated team of professionals is committed to providing the optical comfort that every patient deserves. Call us today at (877) 224-6447, or fill out our contact form to set up an appointment. We work with patients in and around Alexandria, VA.