This month, the entire world is focused on maximizing eyesight – thanks to World Sight Day! To best prevent the onset of eye diseases, it’s important to know why certain diseases occur and what to watch for. Let’s uncover three of the most common eye diseases afflicting Americans.
Eye Disease: Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) can occur with people who suffer from diabetes, a chronic condition that causes high blood sugar levels. Diabetic retinopathy occurs when the retina’s blood vessels are damaged. Signs of DR include:
- Floaters
- Blurriness
- Dark areas of vision
- Difficulty perceiving colors
- Fluctuating vision
- Vision loss
There are four stages of DR: 1) mild non-proliferative retinopathy, 2) moderate non-proliferative retinopathy, 3) severe non-proliferative retinopathy, and 4) proliferative retinopathy. To effectively manage diabetic retinopathy, early diagnosis and treatment is key.
Eye Disease: Cataracts
Your eye has a natural lens that processes images as light travels through your eye. However, if this natural lens is cloudy instead of clear, the image will be blurry or distorted. Although some people have an obvious cloudiness in their eye, most cataract-sufferers do not have a visible cloudiness. Therefore, cataracts are normally diagnosed via an annual eye exam. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, contact us right away:
- De-saturated colors
- Difficulty driving or reading
- Dimming or blurring vision
- Double vision
- Frequent changing or cleaning of glasses
- Halos or glare around lights
- Sensation of “film” in one’s vision
Fortunately, you can eliminate the cloudiness by replacing the lens. At Eyesight Associates, we use the LensX Laser System to replace your lens. This System boasts precision and accuracy like no other.
Eye Disease: Glaucoma
If you are diagnosed with glaucoma, your eye doctor will discuss with you which type of glaucoma you have – open angle or closed angle. Let’s take a quick look into both:
Open angle glaucoma is infamously labeled “the thief of sight” because its symptoms are progress very slowly and difficult to detect. (Annual eye exams are important for diseases like this one, as they can detect subtle changes in your eyes!)
Closed angle glaucoma produces symptoms that are sudden and distressing. While no one wants to be in pain, these symptoms force people to visit an eye doctor sooner rather than later which can prevent permanent damage.
Eyesight Associates is Here to Help
Our friendly eye doctors can diagnose your eye disease and discuss treatment options with you. We understand that optimal vision is key to enjoying everyday activities! Make an appointment with one of our doctors today: 478-923-5872