How do eyes change over the decades?

The flow of time has its toll on our whole organism, including the eyes. Usually, we tend to explain the eyesight problems age, but it turns out more often than not that they are really caused by the lack of hygiene in our lifestyles. However, there are some problems which are inevitable and will, sooner or later, influence our quality of life.

As we age, the lens within our eye becomes thicker and stiffer. This results in problems with accommodation (the ability to focus on objects). Such disorder is called presbyopia and its’ most common symptom is the necessity to look from a distance to see things clearly (e.g. having to hold a book away to be able to read it). The older we are the more light we need. As years pass, our pupils become smaller and let less light reach the retina – a 60 year old person, to be able to read, needs 3 times the amount of light a young person does. This is why it is important to have sufficient lighting while reading – this will help our eyes relax end prevent form headaches.

We also need to consider undergoing regular ophthalmic examinations. After the age of 40 we should visit an ophthalmologist at least once a year – only then a doctor is able to assess the extent of presbyopia and check for diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. People who live actively (drive a car, practice sports) should pay special attention to such examinations.

The older we are the more we are at risk of developing a condition called Dry Eye Syndrome. After certain age, the secretion of tears is limited and eyes are more vulnerable to adverse factors such as dry air, extensive work in front of a computer, or, in case of women, hormonal changes. The symptoms include feeling of sand under the eyelids, burning of the eyes, photophobia. The condition is easily managed by so called artificial tears which moisturise and protect the eyes.

What is more, problems with the natural protectors of our eyes – the eyelids – may arise. As a consequence of atrophy of the levator palpebrae superioris muscle the eyelid may start to become loose, cover the eye less tightly, and, in extreme cases, turn inside out.

Older people often experience disorders such as glaucoma or cataract, which, when not treated properly, may lead to blindness and should not be ignored. Symptoms of glaucoma include: photophobia, frequent lacrimation, seeing rainbow-like circles around a source of light and difficulty in adapting to darkness. The eye becomes tough, red and very painful. Cataract, on the other hand, is a disease characterised by progressing opacification of the lens which results in gradual deterioration of vision – the image appears more and more cloudy. The eyes become easily tired and depth perception is impaired. Also, problems with distinguishing colours and photophobia may occur.

Let’s take care about our health and our eyes. It is the best way to live our lives to the utmost!

Wstecz