Age-Related Eye Issues You Should Know About - Clarity Laser Vision
Age-Related Eye Issues You Should Know About

Age-Related Eye Issues You Should Know About

December 12, 2024

Aging takes its toll on the body in many different ways, including your eyes. A number of common eye problems could seriously complicate conditions if they aren’t taken care of promptly. Whether it is a subtle haze in vision or glare when looking at a street sign at an intersection, understand these problems and their impact. In this blog, we will explore the most common age-related eye problems, their complications, and how to stay on top of eye health as you get older.

Top 5 Common Age-Related Eye Problems

1. Presbyopia

Presbyopia is one of the most common complications of age-related eye problems, and it usually starts to appear around the age of 40. Presbyopia occurs when the lens inside your eye becomes less flexible, making it hard to focus on close objects. This is why you might find yourself holding reading materials farther away or needing glasses for tasks like reading or using a smartphone.

2. Cataracts

Cataracts form when the lens of the eye gets clouded, causing blurry vision. This condition is more common in older adults, often developing gradually over time. The cloudy lens can make it challenging to see in low-light situations and may cause colors to appear duller. Surgery to replace the hazy lens with a clear prosthetic lens is one way to treat cataracts.

3. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

AMD damages the macula, which is the core region of the retina. This area of the eye is in charge of providing clear, forward-looking vision. As the macula deteriorates, people may experience blurry spots or a complete loss of central vision. AMD doesn’t lead to total blindness but can severely impair the ability to read, drive, or recognize faces. There are two types of AMD—dry and wet—and both can require medical intervention to prevent further damage.

4. Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that cause damage to the optic nerve, often due to high eye pressure. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss. One of the challenges of glaucoma is that it often has no noticeable symptoms until significant damage has occurred. Regular eye exams are crucial for detecting this condition early, as treatment can slow or prevent further vision loss.

5. Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is a complication to people who have diabetes, for example, from damage caused by both high blood sugar levels may damage the blood vessels in the retina that may lead to vision problems. It might not have symptoms at its initial stage but could cause blurred vision, floaters, or even complete blindness if left unchecked. Efforts to keep blood sugar under control with frequent eye check-ups are important for preventing complications from diabetic retinopathy.

Complications of Age-Related Eye Problems

If left untreated, the complications of age-related eye problems can be severe. For example, untreated cataracts can make it difficult to perform daily activities, while AMD can cause permanent loss of central vision. Glaucoma, if not detected early, can result in irreversible blindness. Furthermore, conditions like diabetic retinopathy can exacerbate other health complications, making it more challenging to manage your overall well-being.

The emotional toll of vision loss can also be significant. Difficulty reading, driving, or recognizing loved ones can lead to feelings of isolation and a reduced quality of life. That’s why early detection and treatment of age-related eye problems are so important.

Protect Your Vision with Expert Care

A great number of people have age-related eye problems, but such conditions do not have to rule life. Many age-related eye conditions can be managed or prevented through eye check-ups, a healthy lifestyle, and prompt treatment. If your vision is changing or it’s time for an eye check-up, you should see an eye care specialist.

At Clarity Laser Vision, we help individuals enjoy healthy vision throughout a lifetime. For any professional care, contact us today with our experienced eye surgeons in Calgary for guidance through your journey in maintaining the health of your eyes. Book an appointment today and start focusing on your vision.