Common Eye Conditions that Occur with Age

Common Eye Conditions that Occur with Age

People with the perfect vision may also experience difficulty focusing on objects and seeing clearly as they age. There are several types of eye conditions that may occur with age. While some of them can be cured, others can only be managed so that they do not worsen. Some of the main types of eye conditions associated with aging are:

  • Presbyopia
    One of the main types of eye conditions that affect a person as they age, this refers to the inability to focus on objects close to the eye. Presbyopia develops slowly and is usually noticeable only after the age of 40.
  • Floaters
    Floaters refer to small specks that float across one’s vision, and they are more noticeable in a bright space. They are not a cause of concern by themselves but may also be symptoms of conditions like retinal detachment.
  • Dry eyes
    This condition can be described as an itching, burning, and uncomfortable sensation in the eyes due to the inability of the eye to produce sufficient tears. It may also cause a loss of vision, and surgery may be needed to treat the condition in some cases.
  • Cataracts
    Cataracts are one of the main types of eye conditions caused by aging. A cataract is visible in the form of a cloudy film over the lens of the eye, and it develops slowly. Small cataracts do not interfere with the vision, but large and thick cataracts may need to be removed surgically to correct vision.
  • Glaucoma
    This condition refers to a higher than normal pressure within the eye, and it can also cause permanent blindness if left untreated. Early symptoms of glaucoma are difficult to identify, but it can be treated with oral medication, eye drops, surgery, or laser treatment.
  • Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
    Another retinal disorder, this is also one of the main types of eye conditions that can affect a person with an increase in age. AMD is characterized by blurred vision caused by the loss of cells in the macula. Although the condition does not cause total blindness, it can weaken one’s vision. In the early stages of this condition, nutritional supplements can help, while medication and laser treatment are used to treat severe cases of AMD.
  • Diabetic retinopathy
    Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes and is characterized by blurred and cloudy vision, floaters, and blind spots. In severe cases, it may also cause loss of vision, but laser treatment and injections are effective treatment methods.
  • Retinal detachment
    The inner and outer layers of the retina are separated in this condition, and the common symptoms include seeing flashes of light, wavy vision, and seeing a dark shadow. The retina can be reattached through surgery or laser treatment.

Some other types of eye conditions that affect people as they age are conjunctivitis, corneal diseases, inflammation of the eyelids, and blinking spasms. Ideally, one should consult an ophthalmologist once a year after they’ve passed the age of 40 to help diagnose a condition early and get effective and timely treatment.