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MOST COMMON AGE-RELATED EYE DISEASES
Cataracts
This is the normal age-related clouding of the lens described earlier carried to an extreme. The lens becomes practically opaque. Luckily, cataracts no longer need cause blindness. The defective lens is removed surgically, and either a plastic lens is implanted in the eye or special eyeglasses or contact lenses are worn.
Glaucoma
In this condition there is a buildup of fluid because a passageway that lets the fluid circulate narrows or closes up. This causes increased pressure in the eye and ultimately permanently damages the nerve cells on the retina. With early diagnosis, blindness can be prevented. Special eye-drops, medications, laser treatments, and sometimes surgery can be effective at reopening the passage. Glaucoma is called \"the sneak thief of vision\" because it seldom produces early symptoms, so it is important to be regularly tested for this illness in middle and later life.
Senile macular degeneration
In this disease the nerve cells in the center part of the retina (called the macula) no longer function effectively. Symptoms may include blurred vision when reading, distortion or loss of center vision, and distortion of vertical lines. Early detection is important because sometimes laser treatments can improve vision.
Diabetic retinopathy
In this complication of diabetes, the blood vessels that nourish the retina either leak fluid or grow into the eye itself and rupture, causing a serious loss of vision. Laser surgery can sometimes prevent blindness or severe loss of vision.
Retinal detachment
In this condition there is a separation between the inner and outer areas of the retina. The problem is treatable. Detached retinas can usually be surgically reattached with partial or complete restoration of vision.
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GENERAL HEALTH
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