Our eyes undergo many changes over time. Certain vision problems become more prevalent as we grow older.

Presbyopia is the inability to clearly see close objects or small print. This is a normal process that occurs gradually throughout life, commonly starting in our 40s. Reading glasses and contact lenses can easily correct this condition.

Eye floaters are tiny specks or spots that drift across your field of vision. You might notice them in well-lit rooms, when looking at a bright screen, or outdoors on a sunny day. They are mostly normal but can also signal a more serious eye problem, especially if symptoms appear suddenly and are pronounced.

Dry eye occurs when tear glands don't produce enough tears or produce poor quality tears. Eyes may feel itchy, burning, or appear red. Using a humidifier indoors or specialized eye drops prescribed by a doctor can alleviate this condition.

Watery eyes happen when the eyes produce too many tears or tears don't drain properly. This is often caused by sensitivity to light, wind, or temperature changes, and blocked tear ducts. Wearing sunglasses or shielding your eyes can improve this condition. If these measures are ineffective, watery eyes might indicate more serious problems like eye infections or blocked tear ducts.

Cataracts are cloudy areas that cover all or part of the eye's lens. In a healthy eye, the lens is clear like a camera lens, allowing light to pass through and focus on the tissue at the back of the eye called the retina. Cataracts make it difficult to see and usually form slowly, without causing pain, redness, or tearing. Surgery to replace the lens with an artificial one can restore vision.

Retinal disorders affect the thin lining at the back of the eye. This lining contains cells that collect visual images to transmit to the brain. Retinal problems interfere with this image transmission. They include age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusion, and retinal detachment. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preserving vision.

Glaucoma affects the eye's optic nerve. It's often caused by excessive pressure inside the eye. If the normal flow of fluid between the cornea and lens is blocked, the fluid and pressure from the fluid build up. If not detected early, it can lead to permanent vision loss and blindness. Glaucoma may have no symptoms or pain in its early stages. Treatment options include prescription eye drops, oral medication, and surgery.

Conjunctivitis (pink eye) occurs when the tissue covering the white part of the eye becomes inflamed. This can make your eyes burn, itch, tear, turn red, or feel like something is in them. Conjunctivitis affects all ages and can be caused by infections, exposure to chemicals and irritants, or allergies.

Bao Bao (WebMD)