Eyesight can be damaged by a variety of conditions, some of which are preventable and others are not. Common causes of vision loss include age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal detachment.
Age-related macular degeneration is a degenerative condition that affects the central part of the retina, called the macula. This condition can cause blurriness, distorted vision, and eventually, a complete loss of central vision.
Diabetic retinopathy is caused by long-term high blood sugar levels, which can damage the blood vessels of the retina. This can lead to vision loss, particularly if the condition is left untreated.
Glaucoma is a condition in which pressure build-up inside the eye damages the optic nerve, leading to vision loss. Risk factors for glaucoma include age, family history, and certain medications.
Cataracts are caused by the clouding of the eye’s lens, which can lead to blurred vision, difficulty seeing at night, and double vision. Cataracts are commonly associated with aging, but can also be caused by certain medications, eye injuries, and long-term exposure to ultraviolet light.
Retinal detachment occurs when the retina is pulled away from its normal position in the back of the eye. This can be caused by extreme eye trauma, a detached vitreous, advanced age, or certain medical conditions. Retinal detachment can cause a sudden loss of vision, and if left untreated, can lead to permanent vision loss.
In addition to the conditions listed above, vision can also be damaged by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun, as well as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Wearing protective eyewear when engaging in activities that could damage the eyes, such as welding or using power tools, can also help prevent vision loss.