Warning over electronic cigarettes

Traditional tobacco smokers remain most at risk, with double the chances of developing an eye condition known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) whilst research indicates that smoke from e-cigarettes can cause eye irritation such as dry eye.

Specsavers are supporting ‘No Smoking Day’ tomorrow, Wednesday March 9.

Their clinical spokesperson, Dr Nigel Best said: “AMD affects around 600,000 people in the UK alone and smokers are more likely to suffer from this eye condition than non-smokers. The condition is most common in people over the age of 50 but smoking increases the risk of contracting it earlier.”

Dr Best warns: “Although e-cigarette research is still in early stages, and the long term effects are yet to be established, there are early indications that some types can cause irritation to the eyes.”