Are You Susceptible To Vision Loss?

Vision loss is more common than you may think! In fact, it's among the most prevalent disabilities in adults and children. Knowing what puts you at risk of developing vision loss is important and can help you to be proactive about caring for your eyes.

Common Causes of Vision Loss

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases caused by a buildup of pressure within the eye. Too much inner-eye pressure can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss. Risk factors include: being 60 years or older, family history of glaucoma, African, Asian, or Hispanic descent, high myopia or hyperopia, previous eye injury, certain medications like corticosteroids, and certain medical conditions like diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and sickle-cell anemia.

Cataracts

Cataracts occur when the eye's lens becomes cloudy. Common cataract symptoms include cloudy or blurred vision, difficulty seeing at night, light sensitivity, double vision in the affected eye, and seeing colors as faded or yellowish. Risk factors include aging, diabetes, hypertension, smoking, previous eye surgery, alcoholism, and extended use of corticosteroids.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

AMD is the leading cause of severe vision loss in adults over the age of 60. It occurs when the macula begins to wear down. Risk factors include smoking, obesity, aging, long-term sun exposure, hypertension, heart disease, family history of AMD, light-colored eyes, and farsightedness.

Diabetic Retinopathy (DR)

Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Risk factors include length of time from diabetes diagnosis, uncontrolled blood sugar, obesity, high cholesterol or blood pressure, pregnancy, smoking, and family history of DR.

So, what's the bottom line?

Multiple factors contribute to eye disease and vision loss, and some may even be relevant to you. If you think you may be at risk for vision loss or experience any of the symptoms listed above, speak with your eye doctor in Grove City as soon as possible. To schedule your comprehensive eye exam, call Grove City Vision Center today.