Elton John recently shocked fans by revealing that he has lost his eyesight following a severe infection. The 77-year-old singer suffered an infection over the summer which left him blind in his right eye, with his vision not optimal in his left eye either. The infection has also delayed work on his new album. Eye infections are common and usually easily treated with drops or antibiotics, but in some cases, they can lead to blindness.
One common eye infection is conjunctivitis, which can result in red, bloodshot eyes along with symptoms such as grittiness, stickiness, burning, and watery discharge. Most cases of conjunctivitis clear up on their own or with treatment, but severe infections can lead to vision loss or blindness. Another serious infection that can affect the eyes is the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which can cause branching ulcers across the cornea, leading to pain, sensitivity to light, and ultimately blindness if left untreated. HSV in the eye is a leading cause of blindness globally.
Toxoplasmosis, a parasite found in cat waste, can also lead to blindness if it infects the eyes. It is spread through undercooked meat or contaminated water and can cause blindness, developmental issues, and other disabilities, especially when passed from mother to fetus. Trachoma, a bacterial infection, can result in blindness if left untreated. The infection is spread through contact with hands, towels, or flies, and can cause eyelid scarring that leads to corneal damage and clouding. Keratitis, an infection or inflammation of the cornea, can also result in blindness if not treated promptly.
Maintaining good eye health is essential to preventing infections that could lead to blindness. Consuming foods rich in omega-3, vitamin B2, macular carotenoids, zinc, and vitamin C can help support eye health and prevent infections. Foods such as salmon, eggs, spinach, kale, prawns, and oranges are beneficial for eye health. It is important to be aware of symptoms such as redness, irritation, discharge, pain, sensitivity to light, and vision changes, as these could indicate an eye infection that requires prompt treatment to prevent permanent damage and vision loss. Regular eye check-ups and practicing good hygiene habits can also help prevent eye infections and maintain optimal eye health.
