What Are the Most Common Eye Diseases?

More than four million Americans over the age of 40 have low vision or are legally blind. Age-related eye diseases are the leading cause of blindness in the United States. Among the top age-related eye diseases are cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. 

Other common eye disorders include refractive errors, amblyopia, and strabismus. It is important to understand that these conditions are painless.

Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, is a common eye disorder associated with aging. There are two forms of AMD, dry and wet. In dry AMD the central part of the eye, the macula, develops deposits from the breakdown of underlying tissue. Wet AMD develops when new blood vessels develop in this area. AMD impacts our central vision.

Cataracts

Cataracts occur when the lens becomes cloudy, leading to progressive vision loss. Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide. While they are associated with aging, cataracts can occur at any age. Exposure to ultraviolet light over ones life is the main risk factor for developing cataracts.

As cataracts progress, vision will worsen. This process occurs slowly in most cases. Once cataracts get to a point where they are impacting quality-of-life, surgical removal can be discussed.  During cataract surgery, an implant replaces the natural lens.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a condition that damages the optic nerve, leading to vision loss. Glaucoma is typically associated with elevated pressure within the eye, although it is possible to have progressive glaucoma with normal or low pressures. Treatment for glaucoma involves lowering the inraocular pressure. This can occur with topical medications and/or surgical intervention. There is no cure for glaucoma, and early detection and treatment is key to preventing progressive vision loss.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of vision loss affecting adults in America. The condition results from progressive damage to the retinal blood vessels due to elevated blood sugar. Diabetic retinopathy progresses through stages, from mild to proliferative retinopathy. The condition usually affects both eyes. Proper management of diabetes can help reduce the risk of developing retinopathy. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent vision loss.

Other Common Eye Conditions

Other common eye conditions affect millions of people around the world. Refractive errors are by far the most common eye condition. Refractive error includes myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia.

Amblyopia is a condition that must be diagnosed and treated as a child. Amblyopia develops when the brain favors one eye over the other, leading to under-develop visual fibers. Having comprehensive eye examinations is the only way to diagnose and treat these conditions early. 

For more on the most common eye diseases, visit Williamsburg Eye Care at our office in Williamsburg, Virginia. You can call (757) 564-1907 today to schedule an appointment.