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It's no secret that aging bodies are more vulnerable to illness and disease. Even aging eyes can face conditions that, if not treated promptly by an eye doctor, might lead to even more serious and life-limiting symptoms like vision loss. To help you be better aware of your eye health and know when to seek the support of an eye doctor, here are some eye-related diseases senior citizens should know about.

A Guide to Senior Eye Diseases

1. Glaucoma

eye doctorGlobally, some 60.5 million people over the age of 40 have been diagnosed with glaucoma. It is also the leading cause of irreversible blindness in the United States. Glaucoma is caused by increased pressure in the eye, leading to damage to the nerve that connects the eye to the brain. Symptoms of glaucoma include blurred or warped vision and vision loss. In many cases, glaucoma presents no symptoms whatsoever, which is why it is crucial to visit an eye doctor regularly, especially as you age. A glaucoma test is a routine part of an eye exam.

2. Cataracts

A cataract occurs when the lens of the eye gradually becomes clouded. It is a common byproduct of age; half of all people over 75 have cataracts. The most obvious signs include blurry vision, inability to see in low-lit areas, and seeing halos around lights. Cataracts develop slowly over time and are typically not painful, so it is crucial to keep tabs on any changes in your vision and see an eye doctor as necessary.

3. Age-Related Macular Degeneration

AMD causes loss of sight in the center of one's field of vision. While it doesn't lead to total blindness, AMD makes anything in the centerfield fuzzy and less sharp, which can have a profound impact on a person's safety and ability to navigate their day-to-day life. The condition can be caused by several age-related factors, including oxidative stress and inflammation, a poor diet low in antioxidants, and too much iron in the retina. Less-clear or distorted centerfield vision and straight lines appearing wavy are two common symptoms of AMD.

 

The good news is that all of these conditions are treatable by an eye doctor. Dalton Optometry provides the Dalton, GA, and Whitfield County areas with all manner of eye-related testing and treatments as well as glasses and contact lenses. To schedule an exam, call them today at (706) 278-6113, visit their website, or message them on Facebook.

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