Glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration: These are three of the most prevalent eye conditions impacting people in Florida and throughout the U.S., particularly in older age. While they can all lead to vision loss, these are distinct eye diseases with differing causes, symptoms, and treatments.
In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration to help you make informed decisions about your eye care in Tampa.
Glaucoma: Causes and Symptoms
Glaucoma is a collection of diseases involving damage to the optic nerve, which connects the eyes to the brain. It often (not always) is caused by elevated pressure in the eyes. In these cases, the eyes may produce more fluid than they drain, causing increased pressure.
The most common type of glaucoma, open-angle glaucoma, often doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms until the later stages. At this point, the primary symptom is blurry vision and peripheral vision loss. Angle-closure glaucoma is less common but tends to cause sudden symptoms and requires immediate medical care. Symptoms of angle-closure glaucoma include:
- Severe headache
- Severe eye pain
- Sudden blurred vision
- Halos around lights
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Eye redness
Your Tampa ophthalmologist can identify glaucoma often years before vision loss occurs by looking at the optic nerve. At this point, you can take steps to preserve your vision before it starts to decline.
Cataracts: Causes and Symptoms
Cataracts are the clouding of the eye’s natural lens. This occurs when proteins in the lens clump together, usually due to age-related degeneration. Cataract symptoms can include:
- Cloudy, blurry, or dim vision
- Colors appearing yellowed or less vibrant
- Light sensitivity
- Difficulty seeing in low light or at night
- Halos around lights
- Double vision
Tampa cataract surgery specialists like Dr. Mahootchi can surgically remove cataracts and implant a new lens that incorporates your glasses prescription.
Macular Degeneration: Causes and Symptoms
Macular degeneration is the most common cause of vision loss among Floridians over age 70. It occurs when the retina (the part of the eye largely responsible for reading, color, and central vision) is damaged. Genetics, poor diet, smoking, and age all contribute to this condition.
Dry macular degeneration is the most common form of this condition, and it occurs when the retinal pigment below the retina atrophies. Wet macular degeneration isn’t as common, but it causes more severe, rapidly progressing symptoms from abnormal blood vessel growth. Symptoms of dry and wet macular degeneration include:
- Straight lines appearing wavy
- Blank spots in vision
- Blurry central vision
- Difficulty seeing in low light
Glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration share one key fact: With early intervention, vision loss can often be prevented. So, don’t hesitate to schedule an evaluation at The Eye Clinic of Florida today. It could make all the difference in your long-term vision!