upgrade your reading glasses every few years to keep up with changes in your eyes.
3. Which of these eye diseases used to be untreatable?
The correct answer is: c. Most cases of macular degeneration
Nine out of 10 people with macular degeneration have the “dry” form of the disease, which used to be untreatable. However, very recently new treatments have been developed that can delay the onset of or prevent a cascade of events that lead to macular degeneration. New therapies utilizing gene manipulation, laser treatments, antioxidant vitamins, and medicines can help prevent this terrible disease.
4. Which of the following factors is linked to increased risk for glaucoma?
The correct answer is: d. All of the above
If you’re over 40 and have any of these risk factors, be sure to see an eye specialist regularly (twice a year is recommended) and get help promptly if your peripheral vision starts to fade.
5. Which of these precautions might help prevent macular degeneration?
The correct answer is: b. Eating spinach and corn
Many eye experts believe that a diet rich in lutein and zeaxanthin – carotenoids found in yellow corn and dark green, leafy vegetables – can help prevent macular degeneration. One study by the National Institutes of Health found that people who ate spinach or collard greens five or more times each week were almost 90 percent less likely than others to develop macular degeneration.
6. Which of the following is usually NOT a symptom of serious eye disease?
The correct answer is: b. Floaters
Spots that drift through your field of vision may be annoying or even alarming, but they probably don’t signal a serious problem. If the floaters are accompanied by flashes of light, however, this may signal a detached retina. (Halos around lights and impaired night vision are early signs of cataracts, while fading peripheral vision is the hallmark of glaucoma.)
7. How can people with diabetes ward off blindness?
The correct answer is: c. Both a and b
Longstanding diabetes almost always causes some damage to the retina, but it doesn’t have to lead to blindness. People with the disease should keep blood sugar and blood pressure under control — and monitor their vision by seeing an eye specialist at least twice a year.