Eye Health

As we age, we often experience a deterioration of vision, which may be a natural result of ageing or a result of a condition that affects the eyes; examples of common eye conditions are outlined below:

Glaucoma

There are lots of different types of glaucoma but all of them affect vision in a negative way. The most common type of glaucoma is open angle glaucoma; this occurs when the tiny tubes in the eye become blocked and the fluid from the eye cannot be drained properly. There are often no symptoms of open angle glaucoma and it can only be identified during an eye examination. However, other types of glaucoma may cause symptoms; acute angle closure glaucoma causes sudden symptoms including severe pain, redness in the eye, headaches and blurred vision.

Glaucoma can cause the vision to be damaged so it is important to get it diagnosed early; you should have regular eye tests to ensure your eyes are healthy. If the condition is diagnosed early treatment can be given to reduce the amount of fluid in the eye and reduce the inflammation caused by glaucoma.

Cataracts

Cataracts cause cloudy vision because they develop over the lens of the eye; they may affect one or both eyes. In most cases, the cataract gets gradually larger as time goes by. It is important to have regular eye examinations, especially if you are aged over 60, in order to identify conditions or defects.

Cataracts can only be treated effectively by means of surgery; cataract surgery is usually recommended when the cataract is starting to disrupt a person’s daily life. The procedure is carried out under anaesthetic and most patients will be allowed to go home once the effects of the anaesthesia have worn off completely. The eye will usually be covered to protect it from the wind and dust and you should try to avoid touching it or letting it get wet for a period of at least 3 days after the operation. Patients will be asked to attend a follow-up appointment to ensure the eye is healing well.

Guide to Elderly Health

Elderly health Intro

Arthritis

Cancer

Eye health

Getting help

Heart problems

Hypertension

Influenza

Mental health issues

Osteoporosis

Staying healthy

Strokes