Common Eye Diseases Found in People Over 40

November 27, 2024
3:15 am

As we reach our 40s, many people begin to notice changes in their vision, such as difficulty seeing things up close or needing reading glasses. These changes are not diseases but rather normal age-related changes. However, as you age, especially as you enter your 50s or 60s, the risk of developing certain eye diseases that can lead to permanent vision loss increases. Let’s take a look at what these diseases are and how we can prevent them.

1. Cataracts

Cataracts are the degeneration of the eye lens that occurs with age. The once clear and flexible lens becomes hard and cloudy, leading to blurred vision. Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness but can be treated through surgery with an artificial intraocular lens implantation.

2. Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a condition where the optic nerve is damaged, often caused by increased pressure in the eye. It is one of the leading causes of permanent blindness. Once vision loss occurs, it cannot be restored

3. Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

AMD is a condition that becomes more common as we age. The exact cause is still unclear, but it is believed to result from the degeneration of retinal cells due to the natural aging process. This disease may not lead to complete blindness, but it can cause blurred central vision (the area we focus on when looking), which significantly impacts daily life.

4. Diabetic Retinopathy

This condition occurs when the small blood vessels in the retina are damaged by diabetes, leading to swelling or bleeding in the retina. It is one of the leading causes of blindness

When should you see an eye doctor?

For diseases like glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy, most patients do not experience any symptoms in the early stages. As for cataracts, symptoms usually begin with blurred vision, especially in low light, requiring brighter light to read or feeling less confident when driving at night.

How can these conditions be prevented?

Everyone over the age of 40 should see an eye doctor for a comprehensive eye exam at least once, even if there are no noticeable symptoms. Early detection and treatment of eye diseases can help preserve vision. People with diabetes should visit an eye doctor at least once a year.

Article by:
Dr. Nan (Assoc. Prof. Dr. Manchima Makornwattana)

We provide specialized eye care services by ophthalmologists with expertise and experience, using state-of-the-art medical equipment and standardized surgical rooms

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