Health Watch is a Public Service of the Office of News and Publications and is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.
Your eyes are your windows to the world, and this week on Health Watch, well talk about how you can help protect your eyes and your vision. Accidental eye injuries are a leading cause of blindness and visual impairment, but most people arent taking simple precautions that could save their sight.
Dr. Preston Blomquist, an expert in eye trauma at UT Southwestern Medical Center, says just wearing protective eyewear when working with chemicals or power tools can make a big difference. You can also help protect your eyes by following directions when using household chemicals, which may burn sensitive eye tissue. Before mowing the lawn, check for debris that could be thrown by mower blades. If you have an eye injury, whether a cut, a foreign object in the eye or a chemical burn, seek medical help immediately. Also get help if you have a blow to the eye that results in pain or loss of vision.
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November 2006
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