Common Eye Diseases
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that cause progressive damage to the optic nerve. Although glaucoma is usually associated with increased internal eye pressure, some forms of glaucoma can develop even when this pressure is normal.
There are usually no early signs of glaucoma, and those who develop it may go years without realizing they have it. Eye exams are, therefore, a vital tool in diagnosing glaucoma and ensuring swift treatment.
Cataracts
Cataracts are the clouding of the eye’s natural lens. Cataracts develop slowly and are often age-related, although they can develop for a variety of reasons.
Mild cataracts can usually be easily treated with eyeglasses or contact lenses, but if they start impacting your day-to-day life (as many do), you may require cataract surgery.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetes is a systemic condition that impacts many parts of the body. High blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can damage the fragile blood vessels in the eyes, increasing your risk of developing various diabetic eye diseases.
Diabetic retinopathy is one such eye disease associated with diabetes. It results when damage to blood vessels compromises the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Since the retina is responsible for receiving visual images, diabetic retinopathy can lead to vision loss and blindness.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration
As we age, the macula—the area of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision—starts to deteriorate. This progressive deterioration results in an eye disease called age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Although AMD doesn’t cause complete blindness, it does cause central vision loss. It can impact your ability to do detailed work, like cooking, writing, reading, or driving.
