We are fast approaching the end of 2019. The end of the year is a great time to reflect on things in your life that need to be addressed, whether it is fixing that leaky faucet or addressing a nagging health problem. It seems fitting that in the year 2020 we should strive to maximize our vision and eye health. Below are 4 eye related conditions to address in 2020.
Dry Eye
Dry eye affects up to 50% of the adult population according to some studies. It presents with numerous symptoms from blurry or fluctuating vision to red, irritated eyes. What we think of, as eyestrain from working on a computer usually is actually dry eye. Just as there are numerous symptoms and presentations of dry eye, there are also numerous treatment options. There is no reason to continue to suffer. Your eye doctor will take an individualized approach, providing treatment that is unique to your particular situation.
Blurry Vision
Today there is no reason to suffer from blurry vision in most situations. Depending on your age and unique situation, updating a glasses or contact lens prescription could help sharpen things up. There are also surgical options like LASIK, PRK and Refractive Lens Exchange that can help provide clearer vision without the dependence upon glasses or contact lenses. For those who are developing cataracts, cataract surgery can be a life-changing experience. Don’t settle for blurry vision in 2020; schedule an eye exam with your doctor to see what can be done.
Diabetes
If you have diabetes, it is very important to have a yearly, dilated eye exam. Diabetes affects the permeability of the blood vessels in our bodies. The retina is an area where eye doctors can gain a firsthand view of how these blood vessels are impacted. This information is then passed on to your endocrinologist and/or primary care doctor. Diabetic changes that occur within the retina can affect the quality of your vision, sometimes permanently. If you haven’t had an eye exam in the past year, call your doctor to schedule an appointment.
Glaucoma and Macular Degeneration
If you are over the age of 60 or have a family history of glaucoma or macular degeneration, you should have yearly, dilated eye exams to watch for their development. These are two of the most common causes of blindness in the United States. Early diagnosis is important in the management of both conditions.
The doctors at Summit Eye Center specialize in medical and surgical eye care. They are available to help you with your vision and eye health needs. Call 816-246-2111 or email
“The eyes are the window to your soul”
-- William Shakespeare