Well over 100 million American adults suffer from eye problems. The most serious of these can lead to vision loss or even total blindness. Read on to find out about four of the most common forms of Eye Disease in Augusta KS and what to do about them.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Often referred to by medical professionals simply as AMD, age-related macular degeneration affects the light-sensitive cells in a patient’s retina, known medically as the macula. These cells are what allow patients to observe fine details, so if AMD is allowed to progress it can cause potentially serious vision problems. There are no known cures for AMD, but prescription drugs are available that can slow the progression of this degenerative disease if it is caught early.
Diabetic Retinopathy
This serious condition is currently classified as the leading cause of blindness in America. It is caused by leaking blood vessels in the eyes, which lead to nerve tissue damage over time if not kept adequately in check. Any patient who is suffering from diabetes should be conscientious about scheduling routine screenings for Eye Disease in Augusta KS to catch this problem early and avoid permanent vision loss.
Open and Closed Angle Glaucoma
There are two main categories of glaucoma, referred to as open angle and closed angle glaucoma. These conditions lead to optic nerve damage, which can, in turn, lead to irreversible vision loss. It’s essential to catch glaucoma early, which can easily be accomplished via pressure testing.
Cataracts or Cloudy Lenses
When a patient’s ocular lens becomes foggy or clouded, it is known medically as a cataract. This condition is not typically painful, but it is very common. At least 50% of Americans develop cataracts by the age of 80, but thankfully, they can be treated easily with a simple surgery. This surgery involves the removal of the clouded lens and its replacement with a new, artificial lens and is one of the most frequently performed surgical procedures in the United States.
Learn More Today
The conditions listed above are only four of the most common eye diseases. The only way to definitively find out whether readers are suffering from these or other potentially serious ocular conditions is to attend routine exams with specializing doctors. Visit us for more information or call to schedule an eye exam today.
