Top Causes of Vision Loss

According to the National Eye Institute, more Americans are facing the threat of vision loss from age-related eye diseases than ever before. The number of adults facing blindness is expected to increase over the next few decades as the Baby Boomer generation ages into their 70s and 80s.

Vision loss has a significant impact on your independence and quality of life. According to the World Health Organization, worldwide, at least 2.2 billion people have some form of vision impairment.
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The article takes a closer look at the top causes of vision loss and what you can do to reduce your risk. 

Age-related macular degeneration 

Age-related macular degeneration is a common cause of blindness in adults over 60. It occurs when the macula in the retina becomes damaged. This damages central vision, making activities such as driving difficult.

What can you do? You may not be able to prevent age-related macular degeneration, but certain lifestyle tips may help. For example, according to Harvard Medical School, eating certain foods, such as a diet rich in fresh fruits and dark leafy greens, may help promote healthy eyes. Also, avoid smoking and excess unprotected sun exposure, which may increase your risk.
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Cataracts

Cataracts involve the clouding of the lens in the eye. In the United States, cataracts are one of the leading causes of blindness. Cataracts can occur at any age but are more common in older adults. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, more than 20 million people in the United States have cataracts.

While surgery can help treat cataracts, taking steps to reduce your risk of developing them is still helpful.

What can you do? According to the National Eye Institute, there are certain things you can do to reduce your risk of developing cataracts. For example, protecting your eyes from the sun is a good step. Increased UV exposure may raise your risk of cataracts. It is also important to avoid smoking as it appears to increase the risk of several eye diseases, including cataracts.

Wear protective eyewear as needed. Past eye injuries may also increase the risk of cataracts later in life. Wear appropriate eye protection when doing activities such as contact sports, yard work, and using power tools.
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Diabetic retinopathy 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in the United States, diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in adults.

Diabetic retinopathy is progressive and can cause severe vision loss and blindness. Existing blood vessels can leak or bleed. Abnormal blood vessels can grow and cause bleeding and retinal detachments.  

What can you do? Diabetic retinopathy can occur in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is associated with obesity. Trying to maintain a healthy weight can help decrease your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. It is also helpful for people with diabetes to work closely with their doctor to manage blood sugar levels.
If you do have diabetes, frequent eye exams are also beneficial. Getting diagnosed early with diabetic retinopathy may help slow the progression of the disease and prevent vision loss.  

By learning more about eye diseases, you can take the needed steps to decrease your risk and safeguard your vision. If would like to ask whether an appointment with one of our eye doctors would be appropriate at this time, call our office at 508-746-8600.