Smoke signals: How smoking blurs your vision
Smoking can have devastating effects on your overall well-being, but one of the lesser-known consequences of smoking is its detrimental impact on your vision. If you're a smoker and due a sight exam, book today.
There are around
6.4 million
adult cigarette smokers in the UK

A silent threat to your eyes...
The chemicals and toxins in tobacco smoke can cause a variety of eye problems, from dry eyes to more serious conditions like cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
Dry Eye Syndrome
Smoking can reduce tear production, leading to dry, irritated eyes. This can be particularly uncomfortable and may even contribute to blurry vision.
AMD
Age-Related Macular Degeneration is a common eye condition that affects the macula, a central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. Smoking is a major risk factor for AMD, which can lead to vision loss.
Cataracts
Cataracts are cloudy patches that form on the lens of the eye. Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of developing cataracts, which can impair vision and may require surgery.
Increased Risk of Eye Infections
Smoking weakens the immune system, making you more susceptible to eye infections, such as conjunctivitis and keratitis.
Preventable blindness
According to the Royal College of Surgeons of England¹, smoking is responsible for around 45% of all preventable blindness in the UK. These statistics highlight the serious impact of smoking on eye health.
The good news is that quitting smoking can significantly reduce your risk of developing eye problems. Even if you've been smoking for years, quitting can still benefit your vision. When you quit, your body begins to repair the damage caused by smoking, including your eyes. You'll begin to see improvements once you quit...
- Better breathing
- Reduced coughing
- Improved sense of taste and smell
- Improved oral health
- Decreased heart rate
- Decreased blood pressure
- A lower risk of heart disease
- A lower risk of lung cancer

Quit today
If you're a smoker, it's important to take steps to protect your vision. By quitting smoking, you can reduce your risk of eye problems and improve your overall health.
Talk to your doctor
Your doctor can provide advice and support to help you quit smoking.
Consider nicotine replacement therapy
Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) can help manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Join a support group
Connecting with others who are quitting smoking can provide motivation and encouragement. One You East Sussex offer fantastic support to help you quit.
Make lifestyle changes
Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep can also support your quit attempt.