4 Common Eye Conditions in Seniors

As we get older, our health concerns change, including our eye health. Our eyes are frequently the target of many age-related problems as we age, making proper eye care essential. Read on to learn four of the most common conditions are experienced by many people over the age of 40.

1. Cataracts

Cataracts happen when the lens of the eyes becomes cloudy, making your vision blurred as if you’re looking through a dusty or dirty window. Cataracts can also make everything look like a dimmer switch has turned down all the lights. Ironically, trouble with glare can also be a symptom of cataracts as can halos around headlights or streetlights.

One or both of your eyes can be affected, and cataracts frequently run in families. Cataracts are relatively easy to correct with surgery with a short recuperation time.

2. Glaucoma

Glaucoma is one of the most common and serious diseases of the eye. Glaucoma is a condition that happens when fluid builds up in the front of your eye, causing damage to your optic nerve. It can sneak up on you because there aren’t any noticeable early symptoms. It can be treated with pills or laser surgery, but it can also lead to blindness if caught later on.

3. Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration happens when you lose your central vision, however, your peripheral vision stays relatively unaffected. It is also the leading cause of severe vision impairment in adults over the age of 60. This eye health issue is typically generic or brought on by old age. Treatment is possible with lasers and shots, but partial blindness is still a possibility.

4. Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is a condition in the back of the eye, caused by diabetes which can lead to a significant loss of vision. Having high blood sugar levels can lead to damage to the delicate blood vessels of the eye. When they rupture, they have the potential to bleed into the retina and can cause leaking or swelling.

Floaters and blind spots frequently call attention to a problem in the early days of retinopathy, though it is important to note that these are not always early signs of an eye health issue. Drugs and lasers can often help. The best way to catch this is to have regular eye checkups and have your eyes dilated.

Testing for Eye Health Problems

Talk to your eye doctor about these tests to rule out any age-related vision problems:

• Visual acuity test and Refraction. This is the eye chart that most eye exams begin with along with the refraction which measures the best potential for vision.

• Pupil dilation. Drops are put in your eyes to dilate your pupils. This allows the doctor to see into your eye to take the best look at the retina, optic nerve, and all the vascular health in the back of the eye.

• Tonometry. This quick test measures the pressure of the eye. Usually, after instilling some numbing drops, they will use a tonopen to get the reading.

Dallas Eye Tests for Ages 40 and Over

At Key-Whitman Eye Center, your vision, eye health, and quality of life are our top priorities. That is why everything we do is focused on you. As a recognized leader in eye care for over half a century, we are committed to helping our patients achieve the best results possible.

Learn more about our practice and our commitment to our patients. Contact us today for a consultation!