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Vision Loss

All articles tagged with #vision loss

Two Common Sensory Losses May Elevate Dementia Risk, Doctor Says
health21 days ago

Two Common Sensory Losses May Elevate Dementia Risk, Doctor Says

A preventive neurologist says hearing and vision loss are two overlooked risk factors for cognitive decline and dementia. While the exact mechanisms are still being studied, sensory loss may contribute to social isolation and reduced brain stimulation, potentially raising dementia risk. A 2024 Lancet study cited suggests mitigating such risk factors could prevent about half of dementia cases. Practical steps include protecting hearing with earplugs at loud events, wearing UV-blocking sunglasses, taking screen breaks, and staying socially and cognitively engaged, along with regular vision/hearing screenings.

Study warns cat-borne parasite could infect up to a third of people, risking sight
science1 month ago

Study warns cat-borne parasite could infect up to a third of people, risking sight

A new study warns that as much as one-third of the world’s population could be infected with Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite linked to cats and surrounding sources that is a leading cause of eye infections and potential permanent vision loss. The researchers urge WHO to recognize toxoplasmosis as a neglected tropical disease to unlock funding for research, prevention, and treatment, and call for improved food safety, clean water, sanitation, antenatal care, and a One Health approach that includes managing stray cats.

Toxoplasma gondii: The widespread cat parasite begging for neglected-disease status
health2 months ago

Toxoplasma gondii: The widespread cat parasite begging for neglected-disease status

An international team urges the WHO to designate Toxoplasma gondii infection as a neglected tropical disease, arguing it infects about 10% of Americans and can cause congenital problems and sight‑threatening eye disease; labeling it a NTD could boost funding for vaccines, diagnostics, and prevention through safer food systems, clean water, and prenatal care.

Wegovy May Elevate Rare Eye Stroke Risk, Study Finds
science5 months ago

Wegovy May Elevate Rare Eye Stroke Risk, Study Finds

A large look at FDA adverse-event data suggests Wegovy (high-dose semaglutide) has a rare link to NAION, an “eye stroke” that can cause sudden vision loss, with men at higher risk than women. Wegovy shows a stronger association than Ozempic, possibly due to rapid weight loss and blood‑pressure fluctuations, but the overall risk remains very small and more research is needed.

Tattoo Ink May Trigger Rare Eye Inflammation with Vision Loss
health5 months ago

Tattoo Ink May Trigger Rare Eye Inflammation with Vision Loss

Tattoo-associated uveitis is a rare immune-driven eye inflammation that can occur after getting a tattoo, potentially allowing ink-related immune responses to breach the eye’s blood-ocular barrier. While most people don’t react to tattoo inks, some develop inflammation in the uvea that can lead to glaucoma, cataracts, or permanent vision loss if untreated. Larger tattoos and black ink may pose higher risk, and individuals with autoimmune or inflammatory conditions might be more susceptible. Treatments include steroid eye drops or injections and, in some cases, long-term immunosuppressants, but about 75% experience temporary vision loss and 17% permanent loss. If you notice swelling, pain, or redness around the eye, seek prompt evaluation from an optometrist or ophthalmologist; the number of cases may rise as tattoos remain popular.

Ink on skin, eye inflammation: tattoo-linked uveitis explained by optometrists
health5 months ago

Ink on skin, eye inflammation: tattoo-linked uveitis explained by optometrists

Tattoo-associated uveitis is a rare condition where chemicals in tattoo ink trigger an immune reaction that can breach the eye’s blood-ocular barrier and inflame the uvea, potentially causing pain, redness and light sensitivity. If left untreated, it may lead to glaucoma or cataracts and permanent vision loss. Australian studies show rising cases, with larger tattoos and black ink more often implicated, and risk factors including immune-related conditions like multiple sclerosis or certain arthritides. Treatments include steroid eye drops or injections and immunosuppressants, but outcomes vary (roughly 75% temporary vision loss and 17% permanent in some cases). If eye swelling or vision problems occur after a tattoo, consult an optometrist promptly for evaluation and possible referral to a specialist.

Ink-linked eye inflammation rises in Australia, prompting calls for safer tattoos
health6 months ago

Ink-linked eye inflammation rises in Australia, prompting calls for safer tattoos

Researchers report 40 new Australian cases of tattoo-associated uveitis, a rare inflammatory eye condition that can cause glaucoma and permanent vision loss; cases often appear years after tattooing and largely involve black ink. Most patients require long-term immunosuppressants, leading experts to call for more research into ink ingredients and safer alternatives.