Age-related eye conditions like age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma and cataracts can cause severe vision loss and even blindness. Unfortunately, patients often don’t notice the signs before vision loss occurs. For some, once vision is lost, it cannot be restored. That’s why annual eye exams are crucial for all patients over age 60, to diagnose conditions early and preserve vision. A recent survey from the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) found that almost two thirds of American adults don't realize how quickly vision loss can occur. Given this research, it’s important to raise awareness for the host of eye diseases that can impact us as we age. This Healthy Aging Month, read on to review the common age-related eye conditions and what you can do to protect your sight.
Signs and Treatment for Age-Related Macular Degeneration
According to the AAO, the population of Americans with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) will double to 4.4 million by 2050. This is the most common cause of age-related vision loss in the country, and it occurs when the center of the retina begins to deteriorate. Symptoms include blurred or distorted vision, blind spots, reduced central vision and difficulty adapting to low-light levels. If untreated, this condition can lead to blindness.
There are two different versions of AMD: “dry” and “wet.” Wet macular degeneration is less common but more severe and can steal sight quickly when fluid leaks into the retina. Treatments are available that can help relieve symptoms and stall its progression — if the condition is caught soon enough. These include ocular injections that inhibit new blood vessels or special eye vitamins. It’s important to know that patients with wet macular degeneration often need to receive monthly eye treatments to prevent vision loss. Studies confirm that maintaining a regular schedule of eye injections is important in retaining the vision you have and missing even one appointment can have a negative effect.
Protecting Sight From Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a disease that damages the eye's optic nerve, and it’s a leading cause of blindness in the country. Unfortunately, an estimated 50 percent of glaucoma patients don’t realize they have it. That’s because glaucoma develops slowly and painlessly with hardly any symptoms in the early stages. When left untreated, glaucoma can lead to blindness. That’s why early detection and diagnosis are crucial for effective treatment.
Glaucoma is a chronic disease that needs constant management and care. For a majority of cases, prescription eye drops can help lower eye pressure. Most patients respond well to this treatment, delaying or preventing the progression of the disease. For those whose glaucoma is more aggressive, treatment options include laser treatments or eye surgery to relieve the pressure inside the eye. With glaucoma, every day counts toward saving your sight, and you should never skip an appointment.
Treating Cataracts With New Technology
Cataracts are a clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye, and they can begin to develop in your 40s and 50s. As a person ages, cataracts can get in the way of living an active, independent life. You may begin to notice symptoms such as a painless blurring of vision, sensitivity to light and glare, poor night vision and a fading or yellowing of colors.
Thankfully, cataract surgery is available to restore sight. The latest technology uses a laser to help remove the cataract. This results in a gentler procedure with effective results. In addition, there have been many advances in intraocular lens (IOL) technology. An intraocular lens is the artificial lens that is implanted in the eye during cataract surgery after the eye’s cloudy natural lens has been removed. While surgeons have been using these lenses for decades, today’s versions offer crisper, higher quality vision and more function than ever before.
Don’t Skip Your Annual Eye Exam
Prevention and treatment of age-related eye conditions starts with a single eye exam. Many patients may be concerned about making appointments during the COVID-19 pandemic; however, it is crucial to maintain preventative care in order to preserve vision. Before making your appointment, call your eye care provider to discuss his or her safety procedures. Your clinic should be taking precautions to ensure your health and safety. While each office will have its own protocols, there are some general guidelines that should be followed. Those include social distancing, frequent hand washing, the use of face masks and gloves and regularly disinfecting surfaces and exam equipment.
Dr. McGregor N. Lott, M.D., is an ophthalmologist at Florida Eye Specialists. For more information on Dr. Lott, visit FloridaEyeSpecialists.com or call (904) 564-2020.
