Aging comes with many privileges, but it also brings a host of health concerns as well. Your eyes can develop some common issues as they age that it’s important to watch for. Here are three eye conditions you should be aware of as you age:
1. Glaucoma
Glaucoma is one of the top causes of blindness in people over 60. It usually occurs when fluids don’t drain out of the eye properly. This causes a build-up of pressure within the eye, which can damage the optic nerve.
Glaucoma does not cause pain and often presents no symptoms. It often affects both eyes, though not always at the same time. It can cause serious loss of vision and can cause blindness if it isn’t caught and treated. As glaucoma can usually be treated if it’s caught in its early stages, it’s vital to receive regular eye exams as you grow older.
2. Cataracts
When proteins in the lenses of your eyes break down, they can cause your eyes to cloud over and your vision to blur. This accumulated protein build-up is called a cataract. By the age of 80, more than 70 percent of white people and 50 percent of Blacks will be affected by cataracts.
People who’ve spent time excessive time in the sun without eye protection, those with diabetes, and individuals who’ve used certain medications will have a higher risk of developing cataracts. If they interfere with your vision, your vision professional might recommend surgery to replace the clouded lens.
3. Age-Related Macular Degeneration
The macula is the central part of your retina. It contains millions of cells that take in light and turn it into your color vision and ability to see details, like words or faces. When this area loses those cells, your central vision can blur or distort. This is called macular degeneration.
When you catch macular degeneration in the early stages, you can take steps to mitigate it. Later stages of this condition have no cure. This places more importance on regular eye exams.
A Lifetime of Vision Care Awaits at Valley Eyecare Center
Regular eye exams are an important part of keeping your eyes healthy as you grow older. Make an appointment at Valley Eyecare Center for your annual eye exam! You can call us at (602) 955-2700 or contact us online!
