Common Age-Related Eye Problems
Dr. Walter Choate and Dr. Lauren Goldsmith are proud eye care specialists serving the greater Nashville area. They have years of experience improving vision and succefully diagnosing and treating eye disease.
With age, certain vision problems and conditions become more likely. Let's take a moment right now to go over some of the most common age-related eye health issues and vision problems that people face.
Cataracts
Cataracts occur when the naturally clear lens of the eye clouds over and becomes opaque. If left untreated, cataracts can lead to varying degree of vision loss, even total vision loss. Long-term UV ray exposure is the most common cause of cataracts.
Treatments for Cataracts
The most common treatment for cataracts is a routine removal surgery. During cataract surgery, the clouded lens of the eye is removed and often replaced with an intraocular lens (IOL). This improves vision and removes the clouded portion of the eye.
Presbyopia
Presbyopia is a form of age-related farsightedness (hyperopia) that occurs as the lens of the eye loses flexibility. It's an unavoidable part of the aging process.
Treatments for Presbyopia
The most common treatments for presbyopia involve the use of prescription lenses, whether it means multiple pairs of glasses or the use of bifocals. Monovision LASIK is also another option that may be helpful.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a form of vision loss that is caused by increased intraocular pressure. This causes damage to the optic nerve and irreversible vision loss. If left untreated, a patient can lose his or her vision entirely.
Treatments for Glaucoma
The best treatments for glaucoma typically involve the use of medications to manage the pressure within the eye. Surgery may be necessary to address drainage of fluid from the eye and relive the pressure.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
The macula is the central portion of the retina. The retina is the tissue at the back of the eye crucial for proper vision. With age, it's possible for the macula to deteriorate, resulting in serious vision loss.
Treatments for Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
The best treatments for macular degeneration typically involve medications and vitamins to help prevent the development of new blood vessels in the retina and ensure proper nutrition. Low vision devices and aids are also helpful. Surgery may be recommended in certain cases as well.
Diabetic Eye Disease
Diabetes can lead to a number of long-term health concerns, particularly when it comes to eye health. Diabetic eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy can cause damage to the retinas and vision loss.
Treatments for Diabetic Eye Disease
Managing diabetes properly will help mitigate some of the effects of diabetic eye disease. Patients can also undergo laser surgery or vitrectomy, the latter of which involves the removal and replacement of the vitreous gel inside of the eye.
Dry Eye with Advanced Age
As you get older, it's not uncommon to notice reduced tear production and issues with dry eye. This can lead to irritation and an uncomfortable burning sensation in the eyes.
Treatments for Dry Eye
While dry eye can't always be treated, patients should considering carrying lubricating eye drops with them at all times in order to alleviate dry eye attacks when they occur.
Learn More About Age-Related Eye and Vision Problems
For more information about age-related vision problems, be sure to contact our vision correction and eye care center today. Dr. Walter Choate and Dr. Lauren Goldsmith will help you have good vision and healthy eyes for years to come.
