The Doctor's Doctor - Dr. Mandel

3 Common Vision Conditions to Watch Out for As You Age

Around age 40, many people begin to notice changes in their vision. Although some of these changes are common and a normal part of the aging process, some may be a symptom of a serious underlying eye condition. In this blog post, San Jose corneal specialist Mark Mandel, MD, discusses common age-related vision problems and how they can be treated.

 

Cataracts

An estimated 50 percent of all adults age 65 and older have cataracts or have had them surgically removed. A cataract is the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, causing blurry or fuzzy vision. If left untreated, the eye condition can lead to blindness. Early stages of cataracts can be treated with prescription glasses and contact lenses. Once the cataract becomes so severe that it impairs daily activities, it must be surgically removed.

Presbyopia

Over time, the natural lens inside your eye become less flexible, making it increasingly difficult for them to change focus from far to near objects. This results in presbyopia, an age-related condition that results in the loss of near vision. Most adults begin to experience presbyopia in their mid-40s.  Presbyopia can be treated with prescription reading glasses. However, patients who wish to see clearly again without glasses may be candidates for monovision, a procedure that corrects one eye for distance vision while leaving the eye other nearsighted. Following the procedure, the eyes will work in tandem to focus and see clearly at most distances.

Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration, also known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is the leading cause of vision loss among adults age 65 and older. The eye condition is characterized by the deterioration of the macula, which is the small, central part of the retina. When the macula breaks down, dark, empty spots in the central vision can appear, drastically affecting one’s ability to see well. Treatment for macular degeneration includes nutritional supplements (AREDS II formula) and sometimes intraocular medications, which may slow down the progression of the disease and prolong vision. Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, eating a diet rich in eye-friendly nutrients (such as leafy green vegetables) and exercising regularly can also slow down vision loss caused by AMD.

If you are noticing changes in your vision, please contact Optima Eye. Following a thorough eye examination, Dr. Mandel and his subspecialist associates can discuss your visual symptoms and treatment options. Please call 877-210-2020 ext. 3 today.

Related Posts

What’s the Difference Between CLR and Cataract Surgery?

CLR, Cataracts in San Jose
When it comes to vision correction procedures, patients often encounter a range of options, each designed to address specific issues related to eye health and vision quality. Two popular procedures that often cause confusion due to their similarities are custom lens replacement (CLR) and cataract surgery. Although both procedures involve replacing the eye's natural lens with an artificial one, some differences are important to note. Mark Mandel, MD, a leading ophthalmologist in the Bay Area, sheds light on these differences to help patients make informed decisions about their vision correction options.
Read More

Customize Your Vision After Cataract Surgery with the Light Adjustable Lens

Light Adjustable Lens in Hayward
For many patients, cataract surgery is a welcomed opportunity to regain clear, crisp vision. During the procedure, once the clouded lens of the eye is removed, an artificial lens is inserted in its place. While patients today have several options available to them in terms of the replacement lens, Mark Mandel, MD, wants patients to be aware of the unique benefits of the Light Adjustable Lens. Our team is ready to see you at one of our convenient locations in Hayward, Castro Valley, San Jose, and Concord. Contact our office at 877-210-2020 ext. 3 to schedule your consultation.
Read More

What Are My Lens Options for Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery in Castro Valley
Cataract surgery is a common, safe, and effective option for restoring crisp vision. The procedure is designed to remove the clouded lens of the eye, replacing it with an artificial one. Today, patients have a variety of intraocular lenses to choose from that can correct a range of vision problems. Bay Area cataract, LASIK, and cornea specialist Mark Mandel, MD, is eager to help cataract patients decide on the IOL that will most benefit them. Our practice has convenient locations in Hayward, Castro Valley, San Jose, and Concord. Get in touch with us to schedule your consultation.
Read More