There are a number of vision problems that are quite common throughout the United States. Some of them are caused by infections, while the risk of others increases as we grow older. Vision changes can indicate something serious. Here is a list of common eye disorders
Pink Eye
Pink eye is vision problem that is common amongst children, though adults can also contract it. It specifically affects the whites of the eyes which become pink, itchy and sore. It often causes swelling of the eyelids and excessive tearing of the eyes. It is commonly caused by a form of conjunctivitis.
Eye Allergies
Many people suffer from seasonal allergies during the spring and fall and they can be very irritating to the eye. Eye allergies can also happen out of season if an irritating allergen such as dust or mould comes into contact with your eyes. If this happens your eyes may become sore, itchy, red, puffy, burning and watery.
Dry Eye
This is a common vision problem in which the eyes do not produce adequate tears. It causes dryness, itchy eyes, blurring of vision and a gritty feeling under the lids. Artificial tears are usually prescribed to alleviate symptoms.
Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration is a disease of the eye that causes deterioration of the pigment in the centre of the retina and can lead to a severe vision problem. It is the number one cause of irreversible blindness in men and women above 65 years old. Macular degeneration is not reversible though it can be treated with medication and vision therapy.
Presbyopia
Once you reach 40 and above you will start to notice that it is becoming more difficult to focus on objects that are close up. This is known as presbyopia. It is a perfectly normal change in vision and occurs due to a hardening of the lens in your eyes. Initially, you may be able to compensate for this change by holding your newspaper or book further away. Gradually it will worsen and you will need to wear corrective glasses. Presbyopia advances more quickly beyond 50 and you will notice that you will need your prescription lenses change more frequently.
Cataracts
Around half of all Americans aged 65 and above have some stage of this vision problem. Once you reach 70, the percentage increases dramatically. These days surgery for the removal of cataracts is safe and so effective that it can restore 100 percent of vision. Check out this site to find out about the best laser eye surgery in the U.K. www.lasersurgeryhub.co.uk.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a degenerative disease of the eye which causes progressive damage to the optic nerve and, if left untreated, eventually leads to irreversible loss of vision. People over 60 years of age are at increasing risk of glaucoma. It is the second most common cause of blindness throughout the world. Glaucoma affects between one in 200 people age fifty and younger and one in 10 eight and older. It is treatable with laser surgery.
If you are suffering from any of these vision problems you should seek the advice of an eye doctor immediately.