What are the Signs and Risk Factors of Eye Disease?

By admin | Apr 21, 2017

Scheduling a yearly comprehensive dilated eye exam is essential in detecting early onset eye disease. While age is the top risk factor for eye disease, there are other important factors that can also contribute to the probability of developing eye problems.

Diabetes causes blood sugar levels to rise leading to swelling of the ocular lens and distorted vision. Diabetic Retinopathy affects the blood vessels in the retina and is the leading cause of blindness in the United States. People with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are at risk and the longer you have Diabetes the more you are at risk.

Cataracts are a normal aging process that affects everyone sooner or later. Previous eye injury or surgery may cause cataracts and can pose complications for surgery afterwards as the state of the eye may be compromised. Cataracts are a condition where the clear lens of the eye becomes cloudy and light cannot pass through easily. Smokers, diabetes and certain medications may speed up the process of developing cataracts.

Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) usually affects people over 60.  Since there appears to be genetic component to this disease, those with a family history of AMD should be especially aware. AMD damages and destroys central vision that is used to do detailed tasks. There are two forms of AMD, Dry and Wet, with Wet AMD being the most severe of the two cases.

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can lead to blindness. People over 60 who have increased eye pressure, diabetes, optic nerve problems, and a family history of this disease are at risk. Glaucoma often has no symptoms until the vision is severely compromised. Blurred vision and problems focusing may be indicators of a vision problem.

Here at Retina Consultants of Boston our Board-Certified Ophthalmologists treat a wide range of eye diseases and are compelled to deliver quality, compassionate patient care. We pride ourselves in customizing treatment plans specific to our patients eye care needs. We are currently accepting new patients please call and make an appointment today!