The best way to address an issue with your health is to identify it early on. In today's guide, we'll walk you through the three most common eye disorders.
1.) CATARACTS
Many people have already heard of cataracts. You may even already know someone who has dealt with this common eye problem.
Cataracts' most distinctive symptom is the cloudy white lens that slowly develops in the eye or eyes. They can occasionally be caused by injury, UV exposure, and gradual protein deterioration. Cataracts often occur due to aging as they typically develop in people above the age of 50.
You can help prevent your eyes from developing cataracts by wearing UV-blocking sunglasses and eyewear. If you've noticed any changes in your vision, make an appointment to speak with your optometrist as soon as possible.
2.) DIABETIC RETINOPATHY
When most people think of diabetes, they think of insulin shots and dietary needs. However, your blood sugar levels can affect your vision too.
A surplus of blood sugar can change the blood vessels in the back of your eyes. This alteration prevents the retina from receiving the nutrients it needs to maintain its vision.
Any Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes patient is at risk of developing diabetic retinopathy.
If this condition goes unchecked, it can ultimately lead to loss of sight. Once it progresses, patients can undergo laser eye surgery or may require injections of medication to mitigate the damage to the retina. Another treatment called laser photocoagulation can seal loose blood vessels in the retina.
3.) MACULAR DEGENERATION
Macular degeneration is one of the leading causes of impaired vision. The macula is the portion of the eye around the retina that perceives light. When this area becomes damaged, it often leads to macular degeneration.
Several factors could prompt macular degeneration to begin in a person, such as smoking; however, age is often a vital contributor. Family history also plays a part in whether a person suffers from macular degeneration. Current figures suggest that most macular degeneration patients are women, with only 1/3 of patients being men.
EARLY DETECTION IS KEY – SCHEDULE YOUR NEXT EYE EXAM TODAY!
If you have any concerns about your ocular health or wish to discuss your family history of eye conditions, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with our team today. Regular eye exams are the best way to monitor your health and catch any issues before they become more severe.
We proudly provide resources, eye care products, and eye care services for our community in Langley. Take your eye health seriously - contact us today.