Possible Effects of Aging on One’s Eyes
Oct 08, 2020
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Glaucoma is a disease characterized by progressive degeneration of the optic nerve. The optic nerve is a critical part of the visual pathway, transmitting visual signals from your eye to your brain. Damage to the optic nerve can cause irreversible vision loss.
Everyone is at risk for glaucoma, though the risk varies by age and ethnic background. Risk factors include increasing age, a family history of glaucoma, elevated eye pressure and Hispanic or African descent.
It is estimated that half of those who have glaucoma are unaware of the diagnosis because early in the disease there are no symptoms. Glaucoma can be diagnosed on a routine, dilated eye exam. Early detection and treatment can help prevent vision loss and maintain quality of life.
Flashes and Floaters: The inside of the eye is filled with a jelly-like substance called the Vitreous Humor. Clumps of collagen can cast a shadow on the retina, which is the light sensing part of the eye. There usually is a process by which the vitreous can separate from the retina, which can cause a sudden large increase in size or number of floaters along with flashing strobe-like lights in the vision. It is recommended to see an eye doctor if this happens.
In the long term, floaters are typically harmless but can be annoying. In cases of chronic and debilitating floaters, treatments can potentially be done to remove the vitreous and the floaters.
Editors Note: This article was submitted by Mansi Parikh, MD, glaucoma specialist & surgeon and Matthew Manry, MD, retina specialist & surgeon. Both doctors practice at the Eye Care Center of Northern Colorado and may be reached at 303-772-3300.
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