Do you know the true condition of your eyesight? Eye specialists recommend a simple daily check: cover one eye at a time while looking at objects to test each eye’s vision individually. Many patients only realize something is wrong when they try this, discovering that one eye’s field of vision is compromised—a shocking revelation for anyone who thought their eyesight was fine.
Take hairstylist Chen Cuihua, for example. After more than 40 years of creating stylish looks with precise scissors and keen eyes, she nearly lost vision in her right eye without even realizing it. “The sense of accomplishment comes from seeing every client satisfied with my work. But a few years ago, my right eye gradually blurred because of hereditary glaucoma, and I almost reached the point of blindness without knowing it,” she explained.
Her case highlights a common issue: glaucoma often progresses silently. Dr. Xu Weicheng explains, “Early-stage glaucoma usually doesn’t affect central vision, but peripheral vision can shrink. When both eyes are used together, patients often don’t notice the loss until it’s severe.” Glaucoma, caused by abnormal eye pressure damaging the optic nerve, is difficult to detect unless acute symptoms like headache or nausea appear. Risk factors include family history, high myopia, diabetes, and advanced age, making annual eye exams crucial.
Similarly, macular degeneration—a leading cause of vision loss in older adults—is initially hard to detect, especially if it affects only one eye. Dr. Huang Ziyu advises simple self-checks: “Occasionally cover one eye and look at a white sheet with a straight line, or check floor tiles. Distorted lines or blurry areas could indicate a problem.” The macula, located in the center of the retina, is vital for sharp, detailed vision. Age-related changes, accumulation of deposits, or abnormal blood vessel growth can cause lines to warp and colors to appear dull.
High-risk groups include those with genetic predispositions, smokers, individuals with obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, severe myopia, and those frequently exposed to ultraviolet light. Dr. Xu notes, “Just as we protect our skin from the sun, our eyes need protection too—wear sunglasses when outdoors.” Even younger people face risks: excessive screen time, binge-watching shows, and improper eye habits can increase the likelihood of macular degeneration. Blue light in dim environments enlarges the pupil, letting in more light and causing potential damage.
Both glaucoma and macular degeneration can permanently impair vision. Daily self-checks—covering one eye at a time—combined with regular medical exams and managing risk factors, are essential steps to protect the “windows to your soul.”
