Many eye conditions can develop silently but cause lasting effects on vision. Individuals with diabetes, hypertension, a family history of eye diseases, or advanced age should prioritize eye care to prevent vision impairment.

Cataracts

Cataracts occur when the eye's natural lens becomes cloudy, a condition more prevalent with advanced age. Patients may experience symptoms such as blurred vision, light sensitivity, double vision, faded colors, or difficulty seeing clearly at night.

Risk factors for cataracts include age, family history, diabetes, smoking, and previous eye injuries. Surgery to replace the cloudy lens with an artificial intraocular lens is an effective treatment that improves vision.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma damages the optic nerve, which transmits signals from the eye to the brain. Primary glaucoma often progresses silently, showing no clear symptoms until vision gradually declines. Acute angle-closure glaucoma, however, can manifest suddenly with rapid vision loss, redness and pain in the eye, accompanied by severe headaches.

The risk of developing glaucoma increases with age, family history, and high intraocular pressure. Treatment options include medication, laser therapy, surgery, or a combination of these methods to control the disease and preserve vision.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is a complication that arises from prolonged high blood sugar, causing damage to the blood vessels nourishing the retina. It is commonly observed in individuals with diabetes. If left uncontrolled and untreated, the condition can worsen, leading to severe vision loss and even blindness.

The condition can also cause diabetic macular edema when fluid from the retinal blood vessels leaks into the macula, the central region responsible for sharp vision, resulting in blurred vision for the patient. This situation further increases the risk of developing neovascular glaucoma or retinal detachment.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration is a condition that impacts central vision, which is the ability to see objects clearly in the middle of one's gaze. It is frequently observed in older adults. In its early stages, the disease typically presents no clear symptoms, making it difficult for many to recognize.

Over time, age-related macular degeneration can diminish the ability to see objects directly in front of the eyes, leading to blurred areas or distorted, wavy images within the field of vision. Risk factors for developing this condition include a family history, advanced age, smoking, and being overweight or obese.

Dry Eyes

Dry eyes occur when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly, resulting in the eye surface not being adequately lubricated. Individuals with dry eyes often experience stinging, burning, grittiness, irritation, and occasionally blurred vision.

This condition is very common among individuals who use electronic devices for extended periods. Dry eyes are also associated with various other factors such as windy or dusty environments, the use of certain medications, or autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and Sjögren's syndrome. Treatment for dry eyes typically involves using artificial tears, limiting exposure to irritants, increasing air humidity, and employing appropriate medications.

Bao Bao (According to Very Well Health)