Preventative Checkups Can Save Your Vision

As you get older, you run the risk of developing eye diseases that can cripple your eyesight. Many of these diseases are easily correctible if caught early. However, if untreated, some of these can lead to blindness.

To guard against degenerative eye diseases that develop later in life, the American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that all adults start going for regular eye checkups at age 40 even if they have perfect vision. These regular checkups can be the difference between a lifetime of healthy vision and decades of struggling with degenerative eye disorders.

Cataracts are the most common of these diseases. More than 50% of Americans will develop cataracts by age 80. They are caused by a clouding of your eye's lens. This clouding occurs when the protein fibers in your lens start to deteriorate and clump together.

If caught early, cataracts are very treatable. However, if not dealt with, cataracts can have severe consequences, and possibly even lead to blindness. Smoking, diabetes, alcoholism, prolonged exposure to sunlight, and a previous eye injury all increase your risk of cataracts. If you have any of these conditions, it is even more important to start scheduling regular preventative checkups as you approach 40.

A comprehensive eye exam can also detect the development of other disorders, such as glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration.

If you need to schedule a preventative checkup, you can use the links at the bottom of this page to find a qualified ophthalmologist in your area.