Some people suffer from blurred or patchy vision while others have problems with their central or side (peripheral) vision. Whatever the problem, it impacts on one’s life so severely that action must be taken. As with most health issues, the sooner you act, the better.
The most common eye conditions are cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Blindness and vision impairment are common health problems resulting from preventable and non-preventable causes.
Main Cause of Visual Impairment
Uncorrected Refractive Errors
This is defined as presenting visual acuity of 20/50 or worse. Refractive error can remain uncorrected due to limited availability or affordability of optometry services, lack of awareness, and cultural stigmas against spectacles.
Cataract
A clouding of the lens in the eye that affects vision, caused by ageing. The cloudiness is often a result of changes in the proteins and fibers that make up the lens.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration
The most common cause of vision loss in older people, this can be exacerbated by factors such as smoking and bad diet. It affects central vision, affecting activities like reading or crossing roads.
Glaucoma
Caused by increased pressure in the eye (which is not related to blood pressure) which damages the nerves, glaucoma can result in tunnel vision and can even lead to blindness, so early detection is vital.
Diabetic Retinopathy
High blood sugar damages the blood vessels below the retina and results in patchy and blurred vision
Corneal Opacity
The cornea loses transparency due to vitamin A deficiency, measles, viral infections or even an eye injury or wearing contact lenses too long.
Trachoma
A bacterium called Chlamydia trachomatis causes trachoma (also called granular conjunctivitis). It starts with pink eye and is the leading cause of blindness in third world countries.
The best way to treat vision loss is to have the eyes checked regularly. Here at 3 for 1 Glasses, we offer professional eye exams, as well as three pairs of prescription eyeglasses for the price of one. Avoid blindness and vision impairment by booking your annual eye test online today.