As you age, your body undergoes various physical changes, some of which may impact your vision. In today’s post, your eye doctor from Alderwood Optical and Canyon Park Vision Clinic discusses common age-related eye conditions.
Cataracts
Cataracts occur when the proteins in your eyes break down as you age, causing their fragments to accumulate on the surfaces of your lenses. These protein fragments are called cataracts, and they can block light rays from entering your eyes, leading to vision changes. Without treatment, cataracts can even cause blindness. High-prescription lenses may help improve your viewing ease. For advanced cataracts, we may recommend surgery.
Presbyopia
This refractive error occurs when your lenses lose their flexibility as a natural part of the aging process. This may lead to light-focusing problems, causing nearby objects to appear blurry. Your eye doctor may prescribe reading glasses or multi-powered eyewear to improve your close-range vision.
Macular Degeneration
Currently, age-related macular degeneration is the number one cause of vision loss among elderly Americans. It occurs when the macula, which helps provide your central vision, degenerates over time. You may struggle to see things directly in front of you when this happens. While there is no cure for this disease yet, eating a healthy diet and having regular comprehensive eye exams can help delay its progression.
Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome tends to affect older adults as a result of hormonal changes due to the aging process. Your eyes may become itchy, watery and red when this happens. A stinging or burning feeling is also common. For your better visual comfort, your eye doctor may prescribe artificial tears.
To learn more about age-related eye conditions, get in touch with us at (425) 771-8472 for Alderwood Optical or (425) 485-0430 for Canyon Park Vision Clinic. We serve Redmond, Kirkland and the surrounding WA areas.