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All 3 of these conditions can cause either severe vision loss or blindness. Diabetes is the leading cause of new cases of blindness among adults each year. Glaucoma is another leading cause of blindness in the U.S. Among Blacks, it is the most common cause of blindness. Others at risk for glaucoma include people older than 60, especially Mexican Americans, and people with a family history of glaucoma. Age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of severe vision loss among people older than 60.

Tears can also be a reaction to an irritant in the eye. They can be a reaction to bright light, spicy foods, or emotional upset (crying).

20/20 vision is defined by what a person with normal vision can see clearly from 20 feet away. A reading of 20/40 means the person sees at 20 feet what the person with normal vision can see at 40 feet.

All of the above.

All of the above.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology’s guidelines suggest eye exams for people ages 40 to 65 every 2 to 4 years. Adults ages 20 to 29 should have a complete eye exam at least once. People ages 30 to 39 should have 2 complete eye exams during this time. Adults ages 65 and older should have their eyes checked every 1 to 2 years. If you have a family history of eye disease or injuries, diabetes, or are Black and age 40 or older, see your eye doctor to decide how often you should have your eyes checked.

The cornea and lens are the parts of the eye responsible for focusing light onto the retina. Vision can become blurry if light does not fall correctly on the retina. This is called a refractive error. The refractive error can often be corrected by changing the shape of the cornea. This is called refractive surgery. The goal of most refractive surgeries is to reduce or eliminate the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses. Several types of corrective surgical procedures can be done for refractive errors. Talk with your healthcare provider to find out if you need surgery and which type of surgery is best for you.

The condition is called diabetic retinopathy. Diabetes is the leading cause of new cases of blindness among adults each year. In diabetes, damage can occur to the retina of the eye. The retina is a thin layer of tissue in the back of the eye. It captures light rays that enter the eye, making vision possible. Small blood vessels supply blood to the retina. In diabetes, these tiny blood vessels can often be affected by high blood sugar (glucose) levels. This damages the retina and can lead to blindness.

An ophthalmologist is the only eye care professional qualified to do surgery.