Understanding Age-Related Eye Conditions and How to Manage Them

As we age, our eyes begin to change. They’re simply aging with the rest of the body, but these changes can require extra care. Here are a few conditions the eye can experience as we age and what to do about them.

Floaters

• Symptoms
  This term is used for the appearance of squiggles, specks, and spots in the eye. The cause is a change in the vitreous, a gel at the back of the eye.
• Treatment
  While this can be a distracting symptom, it is usually not a severe condition. However, if the number of floaters suddenly increases, contact your doctor for floaters treatment. An abrupt change in the number of floaters can indicate a more serious condition, such as a detached retina.

Macular Degeneration

• Symptoms
  This is likely the most common age-related eye issue. It is a disease of the macula, the center of the retina. Over time, the macula deteriorates, which can cause blurred vision, difficulties seeing color, blurred or wavy vision, and eventually, central vision loss.
• Treatment
  While there is no treatment or cure for macular degeneration, some ways to reduce risks are smoking cessation, enjoying a healthy diet, and avoiding excessive sun exposure to the eyes.

Presbyopia

• Symptoms
  As the eye ages, it can lose the ability to see objects close up or read small print. It is a widespread condition.
• Treatment
  This condition can be easily treated with glasses or contacts.

Dry Eye

• Symptoms
  As we age, tear ducts don’t work as effectively, resulting in dry eyes. Dry eye can start as early as age 40, and by age 65, many people suffer from this condition. The symptoms can include burning, itching, or even a gritty sensation.
• Treatment
  Typically, over-the-counter eyedrops provide the moisture that eyes need. Consult your eye doctor for dry eye treatment if you don’t experience relief with OTC eyedrops.

Cataracts

• Symptoms
  Cataracts cause blurry or clouded vision. This is because cataracts form films on the surface of the eye. The filmy substance is made of proteins on the lens. Statistically, 70% of people will experience cataracts by age 80.
• Treatment
  There is no topical treatment for cataracts, but if they begin to interfere with vision, surgical techniques are used, and the lens is replaced.

Trichiasis

• Symptoms
  This is a fairly common condition in which the eyelid loses its elasticity, and the lashes start to grow inward. The lashes rub and scratch the cornea and conjunctiva. This condition can also develop from an eye infection.
• Treatment
  The lashes that grow inward may be removed, a simple outpatient procedure.

Glaucoma

• Symptoms
  Glaucoma is a disease of the optic nerve that creates pressure between the cornea and the lens. If not treated early, it can lead to permanent vision loss. Glaucoma can be asymptomatic, so regular eye exams are crucial.
• Treatment
  There are numerous treatment options for glaucoma. These include drops and oral medications.

Blepharitis

• Symptoms
  This common condition can be diagnosed after the patient experiences soreness, swelling, or redness of the eyelid. Simply put, the condition is inflammation of the eyelid.
• Treatment
  Treatment may involve more frequent cleansing of the eyelids and addressing any underlying conditions, such as rosacea or seborrhoeic dermatitis.

Temporal Arteritis

• Symptoms
  Symptoms of this condition may include frequent headaches, pain while chewing, and inflammation or tenderness of the temple. Sudden vision loss can also be a symptom. This condition is caused by inflammation or blockage of the arteries in the temple or throughout the body.
• Treatment
  Anyone experiencing vision loss should seek medical help immediately. If any other symptoms occur, it is essential to see a doctor, as early intervention is critical to preventing permanent vision loss.

Conclusion

Many of the eye issues that occur with aging are completely normal. However, it’s essential to seek care and treatment to prevent them from progressing more quickly than they should.

Spindle Eye Associates

The best way to combat age-related eye issues is to schedule regular appointments. Whether you seek an optometrist or an ophthalmologist, Spindle Eye Associates will treat your eyes with precision and care. With four locations in the New Hampshire area, we are available to see patients in Derry, Londonderry, Windham, and Raymond. For more information, visit our website or call (603) 217-2583.