a quick tutorial in vision loss

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook or neglect small tasks. Rarely do we have to pay consequences for our negligence. However, when we overlook the importance of vision care, the consequence may be vision loss. It is important to see an eye care professional at least once a year to avoid vision loss or complications. Outlined below are the three conditions that cause vision loss in our community.

Peep game — are you familiar with these optical disorders and diseases?

Presbyopia is a condition in which the eye begins to lose the optical power to focus over the passage of time. The condition mainly affects adults, ages 40-50. Presbyopia can go undetected without regular eye checkups. However, an eye care professional can diagnose the problem and offer treatment. It can be treated with corrective lenses if caught early. There are also surgical treatment options available.

Glaucoma is a disease that affects the eye’s optical nerve. Very rarely are there any symptoms or pain associated with the onset of glaucoma. As glaucoma progresses the affected individual may notice a decline in the sharpness of peripheral or side vision. As time progresses, the glaucoma advances from the side of the eye to the center of the eye. The result is a narrowing in the field of vision and may lead to blindness. Regular eye checkups are important when dealing with glaucoma because it is not possible to repair the damage caused by glaucoma. African Americans over the age of 40 are at the highest risk of developing glaucoma.

Diabetic retinopathy is retina damage caused from the onset of diabetes. Studies have shown that the longer an individual has diabetes, the more susceptible they are to diabetic retinopathy. Furthermore, the longer an individual has diabetic retinopathy, the more susceptible they are to blindness. Diabetics should be particularly vigilant about getting regular eye exams. –delgie jones III

For more information on vision loss and eye diseases, visit www.nei.nih.gov.