One common misconception about eyeglasses and contact lenses is their capacity to treat almost any eye condition. This, however, is far from the truth, especially considering the different causes of low vision that even surgery and medication can’t treat.
Dr. Joel H. McGahen, your contact lenses specialist, discusses the causes of low vision in detail in today’s post.
Glaucoma
This is an eye disease that affects the optic nerves. It occurs when fluid accumulates in the front part of your eye. This excess fluid then increases the pressure in your eye, impairing the optic nerve. Glaucoma may be one of the leading causes of blindness for people over 60 years old, but vision loss due to this eye disease can be prevented with early treatment.
Macular Degeneration
The retina is the light-sensitive lining at the back of the eye where images are focused. Their macula, however, deteriorates over time, causing blurred vision. Recent studies show that over 1.6 million people in the country have age-related macular degeneration. To reduce your risk or slow the progression of this eye disease, schedule an eye exam with your low vision specialist to prescribe vision aids
Diabetic Retinopathy
People with diabetes may suffer from this eye problem. It’s often a complication of diabetes, which may lead to vision loss. Excess sugar in your blood can cause blockage of the tiny blood vessels that nourish the retina. The eye then attempts to grow new blood vessels that will, because of premature development, often fail later on.
Cataract
Cataracts affect over 22 million people over the age of 40 in the country and are the leading cause of blindness in the world. By 2020, about 30 million people in the United States are expected to have cataracts. Surgery is common to remove cataracts, but people with other eye conditions may not qualify for it. An eye doctor may suggest low-vision rehabilitation to optimize what remains of your vision.
Dr. Joel H. McGahen is the name you can trust when it comes to low vision management. Call us today at (717) 609-4443. We serve residents of Pennsylvania, including Shippensburg and Greencastle, PA.