Common Eye Health Concerns for Adults

Our eyes are essential for daily life, yet many adults overlook their eye health until problems arise. Understanding common eye health concerns and taking preventive steps can safeguard your vision. At Warden Optometry, our Markham Optometrist is here to support your eye health with comprehensive care tailored to your needs.

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1. Age-Related Changes

As we age, our eyes undergo natural changes that can affect vision and overall health.

• Presbyopia: Difficulty reading small print or focusing on close objects is common after age 40.

• Cataracts: Clouding of the lens leads to blurry vision and increased glare sensitivity. Cataracts are a leading cause of vision impairment in older adults.

• Glaucoma: Often called the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma increases eye pressure, damaging the optic nerve. It often has no symptoms until significant vision loss occurs, underscoring the importance of regular screenings.

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2. Digital Eye Strain (Computer Vision Syndrome)

Prolonged screen use has become a leading cause of discomfort and vision problems.

• Symptoms: Eye fatigue, dryness, headaches, and blurred vision are common complaints.

• Prevention Tips:

  • Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

  • Ensure an ergonomic workspace with proper screen distance and lighting.

  • Consider blue light-filtering lenses to reduce strain.

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3. Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eyes occur when the eyes fail to produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly.

• Causes: Aging, hormonal changes, medications, and prolonged screen use.

• Symptoms: Burning, redness, a gritty sensation, and sensitivity to light.

• Management: Regular eye exams and customized treatments, such as lubricating eye drops or dry eye therapies, can alleviate symptoms.

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4. Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetes can affect the retinal blood vessels, leading to vision loss if untreated.

• Importance of Detection: Regular eye exams can detect early signs of diabetic retinopathy, allowing timely intervention to prevent severe damage.

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5. Macular Degeneration

A leading cause of vision loss in adults over 60, macular degeneration affects central vision.

• Risk Factors: Smoking, genetics, UV exposure, and poor diet.

• Prevention: Wearing sunglasses, maintaining a healthy diet, and scheduling regular eye exams.

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6. Eye Health and Overall Wellness

Your eyes can reveal underlying health issues, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and autoimmune diseases. A comprehensive eye exam is a window into your overall health.

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7. Understanding Glaucoma: A Risk at Any Age

While glaucoma is more common with age, it can affect anyone due to various factors.

• What is Glaucoma? Glaucoma refers to a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure inside the eye. Without treatment, it can lead to peripheral vision loss and eventual blindness.

• Glaucoma Risks Beyond Aging:

  • Contact Lens Wear: Over time, flatter contact lenses can press on the cornea and limbal areas, disrupting aqueous humor flow and increasing eye pressure.

  • Extended Screen Use: Prolonged digital device use can subtly change the lens curvature, reducing the drainage angle for aqueous humor and increasing intraocular pressure.

  • Natural Aging Processes: The eye’s lens grows an additional layer yearly, potentially narrowing the drainage angle and elevating risk.

• Early Detection is Key: Glaucoma often shows no symptoms until advanced stages. The most common early sign is reduced peripheral vision. Once vision is lost, it cannot be restored, making regular screenings critical.

• Read up more on the Ontario association of Optometrist website about glaucoma. 

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How Warden Optometry Can Help

• Yearly Comprehensive Eye Exams: Include glaucoma screenings such as tonometry, visual field testing, and advanced imaging of the optic nerve.

• Contact Lens Assessments: Ensure proper fit and monitor corneal health to minimize risks.

• Advanced Technology: We offer OCT scans, retinal imaging, and other diagnostic tools to detect eye diseases early.

• Customized Treatments: Dry eye management, myopia control, and vision therapy tailored to your needs.

• Preventative Care: Education on healthy lifestyle habits to protect your vision for the future.

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Prevention and Maintenance Tips for Adults

• Schedule Annual Eye Exams: Even without noticeable symptoms, routine check-ups can catch problems early.

• Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays: Wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection.

• Maintain a Healthy Diet: Include leafy greens, omega-3s, and antioxidants for optimal eye health.

• Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration supports tear production and prevents dryness.

• Practice Good Screen Habits: Take regular breaks and use artificial tears if necessary.

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Protect Your Vision Today

Your vision is worth protecting at every stage of life. Whether you’re managing specific concerns or taking preventative steps, regular eye care is essential. At Warden Optometry, we’re committed to helping you achieve and maintain healthy vision. 

Schedule your yearly eye exam today and let us help you preserve your sight for years to come.

Dr. Yan Ling LiangMarkham OptometristChanging lives one eye at a time!