If you notice any signs of potential eye problems, it’s important to see your eye doctor for a complete eye exam. The American Optometric Association recommends that adults 40 years old and older see the eye doctor at least once or twice a year depending on their level of risk.
If you haven’t been to the eye doctor in some time, or you are worried about some symptoms you are experiencing, schedule your eye exam today. In the meantime, here are some early signs of potential eye disease in adults.
Quick onset of spots and floaters
Typically, eye floaters are due to an age-related condition called vitreous detachment. This happens when the vitreous detaches from the retina. Generally speaking, this condition is not sight-threatening and does not require treatment. It can heal successfully on its own. However, spots and floaters may also indicate something more serious like eye disease or retinal detachment.
Sudden eye pain
If you’re experiencing sudden eye pain coupled with other symptoms like redness or nausea, it’s possible that you have narrow-angle glaucoma. Without treatment, this disease can result in permanent vision loss. To prevent damage to your optic nerve, see your ophthalmologist in Brooklyn immediately.
Blind spot in one eye
A sudden blind spot in one eye may indicate a macular hole. Your risk for macular holes increases once you are over the age of 60 because this part of the eye is most sensitive. Macular holes can worsen over time and cause permanent vision loss, so you do not want to ignore them. See your eye doctor right away if you notice a gray area or blind spot.
Narrowing in your field of vision
Another thing to pay attention to is narrowing in your field of vision. Often times, this is an indication of glaucoma. There are a number of treatments for glaucoma, and your Brooklyn eye doctor can help determine which one is the best fit. Without glaucoma treatment, you run the risk of tunnel vision or blindness.
Poor night vision
It’s common to have a harder time seeing at night, especially as you age. However, poor night vision, halos around lights and less vivid colors are all signs of cataracts. If you don’t have surgery to correct the cataracts, your vision will continue to deteriorate. The risk for glaucoma also increases. Fortunately, cataract surgery is commonly performed and generally very safe.
Even if you don’t have early signs of eye disease, it’s important to see your Brooklyn retina doctor every year or two, particularly if you have an underlying health condition like diabetes. Some eye diseases have no symptoms and can only be detected through routine exams. To schedule a comprehensive retinal exam, contact Empire Retina Consultants today.