Eye Disorders

Eye conditions may affect the eyelids, eyelashes, iris, pupil, lens and the sclera. There are also nerves, muscles and blood vessels that may be affected by a condition.  Most people experience temporary eye problems from time to time, including itching, blurriness or fatigue.  These conditions often are short-lived and resolve on their own with no further complications.  However, sudden eye problems and those that last for more than a couple of days could be signs of a serious condition and should be checked by a doctor.

Some common conditions that can affect the eye include astigmatism, glaucoma, retinopathy and cataracts.  The most common cause of vision loss in people over 50 is age-related macular degeneration (AMD).  AMD is caused by hardening of the arteries of the retina.  This deprives the retinal tissue of the oxygen and nutrients that it needs to function.  As a result, the central vision deteriorates.

The following lifestyle changes can help keep your eyes in good health, and perhaps identify problems early — schedule regular checkups, do daily eye exercises, take a multi-vitamin, eat more dark green leafy vegetables, wear sunglasses with UV protection, quit smoking and exercise regularly.
 

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