Vision change with age

As we grow older, our body functions also changes with time and so is our vision. We don’t realize this until we hit our 40s and after 60s it’s a common phenomenon. Irrespective to age, we feel that if we are aware enough to these age related changes and pathologic changes, for sure there is a possibility to delay certain deleterious effects. Few eye changes like presbyopia, are not much of worry, as this kind of defect can be corrected by simple reading glasses.

One common age related eye change is cataract and is quite common to be treated by a simple cataract eye surgery. Some serious conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy can cause vision loss, ultimately impacting our quality of life.

Age-Related Vision Problems

With age, our physical efficiency dimishes and we tend to see certain age related changes in our body. There are many eye problems that can come about as we age:

• Floaters – most people feel them in well lit rooms or outdoor bright day light. These are tiny spots or specks that seem to float across the field of vision. These are normal changes but in few cases they may indicate eye problems such as retinal detachment, especially if you also get light flashes. It’s better to see your eye doctor immediately to prevent any damage from existing disease.
• Presbyopia – It is a condition noticed usually our 40s, and there is loss of ability to see close objects or small print. Our vision continues to go down throughout the lifetime, but it can be corrected by simple reading glasses.
• Dry eyes – sometime when exposed to harsh conditions life extreme cold weather, wind while driving can cause temporary dry eyes and is normal. But in case tear glands can’t make enough natural tears or when they produce poor-quality tears and you feel uncomfortable because they cause itching and burning, it is better to meet your eye doctor. Humidifier use t home can be used as a supportive remedy.
• Wearing sunglasses on sunny days can protect you from having too many tears originate from sensitivity to light, wind, or temperature changes. But in severe cases, excessive tearing could indicate an eye infection or blocked tear duct.

Eye Diseases in Aging Adults

There are certain eye diseases and disorders that are common in aging adults:

• Conjunctivitis – Inflammation of conjunctiva, It results when the tissue lining the eyelids and covering the sclera gets inflamed. It manifests as “pink eye” or “red eye,” causing redness, itching, burning, and tearing.
• Glaucoma – This disorder is the result of increased pressure inside the eye. In case it is left untreated, it can result in permanent vision loss and blindness. Genetic transmission , diabetes, certain medication are predisposing factors for glaucoma. Your eye doctor can determine the diagnosis in simple eye exam.
• Cataracts – Eye lens is transparent in nature and becomes cloudy with age, thereby preventing light from passing through the lens to the back of the eye. They form slowly but aren’t painful. When these cloudy areas enlarge in size, can be corrected by cataract surgery.
• Corneal diseases can cause redness, pain, watery eyes, reduced vision, or halo effect and can be corrected by medicated eye drops or rarely surgery.
• Retinal disorders like age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal detachment need early attention to prevent these complex disorders.

Contact Mumbai Eye Care

Do you experience any of these? Give us a call to book an appointment just to make sure all is well. Contact us at +91 8451045935, +91-8451045934