While it is not discussed as much as general health, eye health is essential for a number of reasons. Obviously, poor eye health can lead to problems with vision, but poor eye health can also be indicative of a number of other conditions that may affect other areas of the body. This is why it is important for people to have regularly scheduled eye examinations to check for common conditions that can negatively impact eye health and vision. Fortunately, the advancement in LASIK eye surgery has provided a viable option for individuals to correct their vision in certain instances.
Following, are some of the most common eye diseases that people encounter.
Presbyopia
Presbyopia, more commonly referred to as nearsightedness, is very common -- affecting the ability of an individual to clearly see objects that are close in proximity, as well as small print. Presbyopia commonly occurs slowly, over time, and it can be corrected by the use of prescription eyewear or LASIK eye surgery. There are Ophthalmologists and optometrists in the St. Louis area that treat this condition on a regular basis.
Cataracts
Cataracts can best be described as cloudy areas that develop within the lens of the eye. When an eye lens is healthy, it is clear like a camera lens, which makes it easy of light to pass through the lens on to the retina, where images are then processed. With cataracts, the cloudiness in the lens makes it difficult for light to pass through the eye lens, making it difficult to see.
Glaucoma
This is a condition that is common, and it is the result of the buildup of pressure in the eye. The eye is similar to a tire, pressure is normal and safe at a certain level; however, when the pressure in the eye rises above the level in which it is safe -- damage to the optic nerve is likely. When pressure damages the optic nerve, it is referred to as primary open angle glaucoma. People who are suffering with this condition will not have any type of early onset symptoms, such pain or blurred vision, making it paramount for them to undergo regular eye exams to detect the condition as soon as possible.
There are a number of other retinal disorders and optic diseases that can be detected through an eye exam. One of the most common reasons for degenerative vision due to treatable conditions is the failure to diagnose the conditions during their early stages.