Is Eye Damage Reversible?

• Diabetic Retinopathy
• Implantable Telescopes
• Stem Cells
• Cataract Removal
• Ocular Regeneration
• Prevent Eye Damage

 

Approximately 75 percent of adults suffer from impaired vision and rely on glasses or contact lenses to see correctly each day. Many people must get a stronger prescription each year as their vision continues to deteriorate with age. If you want to improve your eye health and see clearly, it’s important to understand and learn if eye damage is reversible.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Some adults suffer from impaired vision due to Diabetic Retinopathy, which causes damage to blood vessels in the retina due to the blood sugar levels caused by diabetes. The blood vessels are prone to swelling or leaking and can eventually lead to irreversible blindness. Fortunately, there are medications and treatments available to slow down or stop the damage from becoming more severe. VEGF inhibitors are considered to be the most successful form of treatment for those who suffer from dry age-related macular degeneration. Steroid injections can also reduce swelling and stop bleeding or leaking that is present. This can allow the retina to dry up to its normal condition and will allow the vision to become restored. An Avastin procedure can also be performed to cause blood vessels to regress. The treatment is often repeated to maintain the results.

Implantable Telescopes

Eye surgeons are now capable of planting tiny telescopes into the eyes to magnify images and make them more visible. The telescopes can limit the need for wearing glasses or contacts and were only available for adults who underwent cataract surgery in recent years. Fortunately, anyone can undergo the treatment now for a natural lens.

Stem Cells

Although there is currently not any treatments available to reverse age-related macular degeneration, research has been performed with stem cells on animal models and these studies look promising. In one study, a form of stem cell showed that it can be genetically reprogrammed to become a retina cell. Some patients have already had retinal stem cell transplants that have proven to be successful without any major complications occurring. Most stem cell transplants have been performed to replace retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells instead of photoreceptors. 

Cataract Removal

Many people are advised to have their cataracts removed to improve their vision without treating the retinas. Cataracts are known to cause the lens to become clouded and can prevent as much light from reaching the retina. Fortunately, there’s not any risk of  macular degeneration with the procedure. 

Ocular Regeneration

Some eye doctors also believe that you can restore your vision naturally through your diet and lifestyle. The eyes have cells that regenerate, which can allow you to restore your vision at home by performing aerobic exercise 20 minutes each day, getting 30 minutes of sun exposure daily, performing intermittent fasting to stimulate healing, consuming omega-3 fatty acids, and by adding pre-probiotic fiber to your diet to increase BNDF. Drinking green tea, eliminating processed sugar, and reducing stress levels is also proven to be effective.

Prevent Eye Damage

Fortunately, eye damage can be prevented early on to ensure you can continue to see well. Visiting the eye doctor for an annual exam is necessary to determine if any chronic conditions are developing. This will also allow you to use an updated prescription that is accurate and reduces eye strain that can occur. Limiting the use of gadgets like laptops, smartphones, and tablets can also protect your eyes from damage due to increased exposure to blue light that is emitted from the screens. Wearing glasses that block blue light can also be useful for those who spend several hours working on the computer each day. Taking breaks every 15 minutes while staring at a screen can also protect your vision. Make it a point to stare at an object in the distance for several seconds to help your eyes readjust. 

Although reversing eye damage is limited, there are many surgeries and procedures available to improve vision and restore loss that has occurred. As technology becomes more advanced and innovative, it improves the chances of more options becoming available for those who want to see clearly again.