We rely on our eyes every day to help us navigate the world around us. As time goes on and your eyes begin to deteriorate, you become more susceptible to eye disorders such as cataracts and glaucoma. These disorders affect the eye’s health and can lead to vision loss. So, what are the symptoms of cataracts and glaucoma? Read on for the answers.
What Are Cataracts?
Many different parts make up the eye, and one of the most vital parts is the lens. This is located behind the iris and allows light to enter and project images to your brain. The brain will then decipher these images. As time progresses, the proteins in the lens will break down and stick together, forming cloud-like clumps called cataracts. These clumps can then distort vision.
Cataracts Symptoms
Cataracts are slow to develop, so we tend associate them with older patients. They are difficult to notice when they first form, as they don’t cause symptoms for many years. These symptoms can include blurred vision, sensitivity to light, pale or faded colors, and double vision. Patients often wait to get their eyes checked until they notice these visual impairments.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is another eye condition that is often confused with cataracts. Unlike cataracts, glaucoma manifests when there is too much fluid pressure inside the eye. The body steadily replaces this fluid every day, but sometimes, objects block this transfer and pressure can build up. This can damage the optic nerves in the eye and cause vision loss. This process is typically gradual and known as open-angle glaucoma. However, if it occurs suddenly, the condition is referred to as closed-angle.
Glaucoma Symptoms
Glaucoma doesn’t typically display symptoms at its onset, as the condition is typically gradual. However, as time goes on, patients will lose some peripheral vision before eventually experiencing tunnel vision as the condition advances. Closed-angle glaucoma presents more severe symptoms such as intense eye pain and nausea. Vision can also blur, and patients may see small halos of glowing light.
Whatever symptoms your clients may be experiencing, you must examine and identify their condition as soon as possible. Your clients will feel relief, and their condition may not worsen. The symptoms of cataracts and glaucoma can be hard to spot since they often show up gradually. With the right ophthalmic supplies from Automated Ophthalmics, you can catch these conditions early before they get out of hand.