As we transition into the spring and summer months, it’s an opportune time to look into the five prevalent eye conditions that commonly affect individuals as they age.
These conditions – presbyopia, dry eye, cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration – constitute the primary concerns among the senior demographic.
Presbyopia results from the gradual aging of the natural lens in the eye, leading to a decline in its ability to adjust focus for near vision.
Symptoms typically manifest in one’s forties, necessitating the use of reading glasses or bifocals, which become increasingly powerful until stabilizing in the late fifties.
Dry eye syndrome, more prevalent in women, involves disruptions in the tear film, leading to symptoms such as watery eyes, fluctuating vision, and a sensation of foreign particles.
Cataracts, characterized by the clouding of the eye’s lens, are a leading cause of vision impairment in adults over 40.
Surgical intervention involves replacing the clouded lens with an implant tailored to correct vision issues like astigmatism or presbyopia.
Glaucoma, affecting approximately three million Americans and projected to rise, damages the optic nerve, often progressing unnoticed until significant vision loss occurs.
Regular eye exams are crucial, especially for those over 50, as early detection is key to managing this “silent thief of sight.”
Macular degeneration, the primary cause of blindness in individuals over 60, involves damage to the macula, responsible for central vision.
Treatment options vary depending on the type – dry AMD often requires vitamin supplementation, while wet AMD necessitates medications to mitigate bleeding and fluid leakage.
At the Center for Advanced Eye Care, our experts specialize in managing these conditions.
To schedule an examination, contact us at 1-833-921-6200 or visit www.centerforeyes.com/make-appointment/.
PHOTO CAP: Dr. Bing Chiu, Comprehensive Ophthalmology, Cataracts, Glaucoma
