life at...60 something
OUR
AGING EYES
By Richard Nauheim, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Various eye conditions may affect vision as we age. Three common disorders include cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration.
Cataracts are among the more common causes of visual loss, affecting 80 percent of people over 60. A cataract is a clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye. Symptoms may include blurred vision, problems with glare, difficulty with reading and poor night vision.
During the early stages of cataract development, eyeglass prescription changes may improve vision. As the cataract progresses and associated symptoms interfere with the ability to perform visual tasks, surgical alternatives may be considered. Surgery is commonly performed with a technique called phacoemulsification. The cataract is removed with ultrasound waves through a microsurgical incision. An intraocular lens replaces the aging cataract lens.
Glaucoma is defined as damage to the optic nerve from elevated eye pressure. The optic nerve transmits visual messages from the eye to the brain allowing us to see. Proper treatment, including eye drops, laser and surgery can prevent progression of optic nerve damage. Since glaucoma is usually an asymptomatic disease during the early stages, an annual eye exam is important for early diagnosis and treatment.
Age related macular degeneration is the leading cause of visual impairment affecting Americans over age 50. Macular degeneration results in damage to the macula, which is located in the back of the eye and is responsible for central vision. Wet macular degeneration is associated with the growth of abnormal blood vessels that leak fluid and blood resulting in loss of vision. This can be treated with laser technology and injectable medications. Dry macular degeneration is associated with a gradual loss of central vision. There is some evidence that multivitamins with antioxidants and lutein can slow the progression of dry macular degeneration. An annual eye exam is important to preserve and maintain your best vision.
Formula to
Prevent
Macular
Degeneration
A study conducted by the National Eye Institute (NEI) produced a potential formula for the prevention of age-related macular degeneration. In this eight-year study, involving more than 3,500 subjects over age 55, researchers found that when administered in the early stage of macular degeneration, certain supplements significantly inhibited the total amount of vision loss that would normally be caused by the condition.
The research team recommended that anyone at risk of developing macular degeneration should consider taking these supplements daily, in the same amounts used in the study:
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Vitamin C - 500 mg
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Vitamin E - 400 IU
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Beta-carotene - 15 mg
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Zinc (as zinc oxide) - 80 mg
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Copper (as cupric oxide) - 2 mg
—Nauheim
Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness among the elderly population.
Dr. Nauheim is director of Ophthalmology at South Nassau Communities Hospital and has a private practice in Merrick.
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