The signs and symptoms of a body’s wear-and-tear become more visible as we age. The eyes are no exception to this, with age-related eye conditions becoming increasingly common in seniors across all backgrounds.
While some of these conditions are merely a nuisance, others can lead to serious vision impairment or blindness. Therefore, it’s essential to be aware of the most common symptoms associated with age-related eye issues, so you can catch them early and get the treatment you need. Here are the top five symptoms of eye issues you need to be aware of.
Blurry vision
One of the most common symptoms of age-related eye issues is blurry vision. This can be caused by several factors, including presbyopia, cataracts, or glaucoma. Individuals diagnosed with glaucoma should see an ophthalmologist for regular check-ups, as this condition can progress quickly and lead to blindness if left untreated. In addition, innovative technologies ensure accurate diagnosis and prompt interventions, including undergoing the best laser for glaucoma treatments to provide superior results.
Difficulty seeing at night
Age-related eye conditions can also make it difficult to see when the lighting is dim. This symptom is often caused by cataracts, which block or distort the light that passes through the eye. If you’re having difficulty seeing at night, it’s important to see an eye doctor so they can determine whether or not you have cataracts. If you do, they may recommend surgery to remove them.
Trouble seeing colors
Eyesight often begins to change with age. For many people, this means needing glasses or contact lenses to see clearly. However, other changes can also occur, such as a diminished ability to see specific colors. This is due to a loss of pigment in the retina, the part of the eye responsible for processing color information. As a result, aging eyes can have trouble seeing blues and greens, and these colors may appear faded or dull.
Flashing lights or floaters
If you see flashing lights or floaters in your vision, you must see an eye doctor immediately. These could be signs of a detached retina, a serious condition that can lead to vision loss. Flashing lights are usually caused by vitreous detachment, which happens when the gel-like substance in the back of the eye begins pulling away from the retina. On the other hand, floaters are small bits of debris that float in your field of vision. They’re usually harmless but can be a sign of retinal detachment in some cases.
Dry eyes
Dry eye syndrome happens when enough tears are not produced, or the tears produced are not of a high enough quality to keep the eyes adequately lubricated. This can cause various symptoms, including itchiness, redness, and burning. If not treated, dry eye syndrome can lead to serious damage to the cornea.
Final thoughts
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, you must see an eye doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for preserving your vision and preventing further damage. Remember, you only have one set of eyes, so taking care of them is of utmost importance.
