As you age, your senses can worsen. Your eyes are no exception. Over the years, your vision will likely get worse. It can be helpful to schedule regular eye exams for your glasses prescription if you need them. But regular screenings for potential eye conditions are also important. Below, we will discuss some age-related eye conditions that screening exams could catch.
What do Eye Care Screenings Look For?
Generally, eye care screenings look for signs of degeneration or vision loss. This can include a variety of different ocular conditions. The most common conditions an eye exam will screen for include:
- Cataracts
- Macular Degeneration
- Diabetic Retinopathy
- Glaucoma
Cataracts
Cataracts are an eye condition that is commonly related to aging. A cataract is the clouding of the eye’s lens. The cloudiness can cause vision loss, blurriness, dimmed vision, faded coloration in vision, or lighting glare. It is similar to having a smudge on a camera lens. Surgical intervention is highly effective in clearing up cataracts.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
AMD is a degenerative condition that affects the retina. This causes central vision to worsen. It is most often found in individuals aged 60 and older. AMD causes objects in the center of your view to appear blurry, dark, or wavy. Treatment can vary depending on the type and severity of the degeneration. But there is currently no cure for AMD.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetics may experience diabetic retinopathy in their eyes. This is a condition where the blood vessels in the eyes are damaged. It can cause severe vision loss if it goes untreated. Early detection through screenings is vital to ensure intervention.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a type of eye disease, primarily classified by the damage caused to the optic nerve. Usually, this damage is the result of high fluid pressure in and around the eye. In the early stages, glaucoma can be asymptomatic. But as the condition worsens, partial or total blindness can occur. Early detection through screenings is vital to treating and counteracting glaucoma. Early stages can be fought with eye drops. Laser treatments or minimally invasive surgery are likely needed for further stages.
How Frequently Do You Need Eye Screenings?
Generally, you should have an eye screening every one to two years. Your eye doctor may recommend more frequent eye exams as needed. A family history of eye conditions, other pre-existing conditions (like diabetes), or other factors may warrant more frequent screenings.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical, healthcare, or financial advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide and should not be relied on for advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has provided excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help older and disabled individuals live safely and independently while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information, contact us or call (718)-979-6900.
