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 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 that can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss. Since symptoms often don't appear in the early stages, regular eye exams are crucial. Risk factors include being 60 years or older, family history of glaucoma, African/Asian/Hispanic descent, high myopia or hyperopia, previous eye injury, certain medications like corticosteroids, and conditions like diabetes or hypertension.

Cataracts

Cataracts occur when the eye's lens becomes cloudy. Common 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, and long-term use of corticosteroids.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

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

Diabetic Retinopathy (DR)

A complication of Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes that affects the retina. Risk factors include length of time from diabetes diagnosis, uncontrolled blood sugar, obesity, high cholesterol or blood pressure, pregnancy, and smoking.

What's the Bottom Line?

If you think you may be at risk for vision loss, speak with your eye doctor in St. Clairsville as soon as possible. We recommend having your eyes thoroughly examined every 1-2 years, or as often as your eye doctor recommends. To schedule your comprehensive eye exam, call St. Clairsville Eyecare at (740) 695-0444.