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This week on Healthwatch, we're talking about eye health, as part of Healthy Vision Month. Previously, we talked about conditions that can lead to vision loss and blindness. Doctors at UT Southwestern Medical Center say that one of the leading causes of preventable blindness is trauma or injury to the eye.
Eyes can be damaged to the point that vision is lost through all kinds of work and leisure activities: using power tools, mowing the lawn, playing sports like hockey or paint ball, using BB guns or setting off fireworks. Eyes can also be damaged by chemicals, for example when jump starting a battery.
Dr. Wayne Bowman, a UT Southwestern ophthalmologist, says one of the best things you can do to preserve your sight is to use proper protective eye gear. Safety goggles or eyewear designed for the sport or activity can help save your eyes.
Next: The latest advances in eye surgery.
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May 2005
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