A recent poll found that Americans rank, “losing eyesight,” highly among the worst health concerns that could affect them. Yet only half report having insurance that covers eye exams. In the public opinion poll conducted by the Alliance for Eye and Vision Research, respondents ranked, “quality of life,” as the possible negative consequence associated with vision loss. Of the 40% of respondents that ranked vision loss as incredibly concerning, less then halfsought regular eye exams.
- Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is defined as a complication of diabetes that affects the eyes. Specifically, this complication is caused by too much sugar in your blood, which damages the blood vessels that nourish the retina in the eye. Over time, and without proper treatment, the blood supply to the retina can be completely cut off and vision loss can result.
Learn more about diabetic retinopathy at: https://www.scottsdaleeye.comdiabetic-retinopathy/#sthash.nZVj460M.dpuf
- Glaucoma
Glaucoma works by damaging your eye’s optic nerve, which over time can cause blindness. Pressure builds up within the eye, placing stress on the optic nerve, which transmits images to the brain. That pressure can cause so much damage that the optic nerve cannot send images to the brain.
Learn more about glaucoma at: https://www.scottsdaleeye.com2-2-million-americans-glaucoma-just-celebrities/#sthash.i52s1Swg.dpuf
- Cataract
Cataracts are a clouding of the lens of your eye, creating frosty or fogged-up window vision. They can cause halos around lights, double vision, and extreme sensitivity to light (glare). If left untreated, cataracts can lead to blindness. Surgery usually restores the vision.
Learn more about cataracts at: https://www.scottsdaleeye.comcataracts/
- Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
According to the National Eye Institute, macular degeneration affects more than 1.75 million people in the U.S. It is also the leading cause of irreversible vision loss among the elderly. It occurs when the central portion of the retina, known as the macula, literally deteriorates.
Learn more about AMD at: https://www.scottsdaleeye.comage-related-eye-conditions-prevent/#sthash.R9zwX5iv.dpuf
- Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Subarachnoid hemorrhage is extremely rare, and results in bleeding between the brain and the tissues that cover the brain. Some of the vision-related symptoms of subarachnoid hemorrhage are sensitivity to light, decreased vision, and even blindness.
Learn more about subarachnoid hemorrhage at http://www.healthline.com/health/subarachnoid-hemorrhage
- Retinal Detachment
Retinal detachment can occur when fluid within the eye leaks through a retinal tear and collects underneath the retina. This collection of fluid can actually detach the retina, causing you to lose vision.
Learn more about retinal detachment at http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/retinal-detachment/basics/causes/con-20022595
Regular Eye Exams
There are multiple eye conditions and diseases, not to mention accidents and emergencies, which can lead to vision loss and blindness. This Halloween season, make it a point on your “To Do” list to schedule an eye exam with Scottsdale Eye Physicians & Surgeons. Early prevention is key to maintaining healthy and long-lasting vision.