New Yorkers Are Ignoring Eye Problems That Could Be Serious

A new survey found that people often ignore eye problems, even when the symptoms could be signs of something more serious. Researchers surveyed more than 2,000 people and discovered that many put off eye exams, and think vision problems are just a part of getting older.

Dry Eyes Top the List

The most common eye problem people ignore is dry eyes. Many people blame dry eyes on screen time, allergies, lack of sleep, or wearing contact lenses. Instead of getting checked, they use eye drops or just deal with the discomfort.

Many Ignore Light Sensitivity

Sensitivity to bright light was the second most ignored symptom. People think it's caused by a headache, lack of sleep, or spending too much time indoors. But light sensitivity can be linked to eye irritation or inflammation.

Trouble Reading Small Print Gets Overlooked

Many people struggle to read menus, books, or text messages but don't think much about it. Instead, they zoom in on their phones or hold things farther away. While this is a part of aging, it can also signal changes in vision that should be checked by an eye doctor.

Floaters and Flashes Can Be Warning Signs

Many respondents said they ignore floaters, which are tiny spots that seem to drift across their vision. While floaters are often harmless, sudden flashes of light or a large increase in floaters can be a sign of a serious eye problem.

Eye Pain Is Easier to Ignore Than Tooth Pain

One finding from the survey was that New Yorkers are more likely to ignore eye pain than tooth pain. When asked which type of pain they would put off dealing with, 54% said eye pain, while 46% said tooth pain.

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Most Believe Vision Loss Is Unavoidable

The survey found that over 75% of people believe worsening eyesight is just something that happens as they get older. That may be one reason people delay getting eye exams or don't get treatment when symptoms appear.

Many Wait Weeks Before Getting Help

Even when people notice eye symptoms, most do not seek help right away. Only 16% said they would get help the same day. More than one-third said they would wait a few weeks before doing anything, while some said they would wait months.

Cost and Convenience Keep People Away

Money and scheduling challenges also keep people from getting eye care. More than one-third of those said they have skipped an eye appointment because of the cost. Over 50% admitted they have postponed an exam because it wasn't convenient.

Don't Ignore Changes in Your Vision

Many eye symptoms may feel like nothing, but experts say changes in your vision should not be ignored. Whether it's blurry vision, trouble seeing at night, or sudden flashes of light, getting an eye exam can help catch problems early and protect your eyesight for years to come.