While everyone in the Orlando/Lake Nona area should protect their vision with a comprehensive eye exam, women seem to be at an increased risk for correctable and even preventable eye issues. Two-thirds of visual impairment and blindness occur in women, according to the Women’s Eye Healthy.
Research shows women are at a higher risk and inherently more prevalent for developing many vision threatening conditions. Cataracts, dry eye syndrome, and Diabetic Retinopathy are just a few of the most common issues
Cataracts “A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s lens that leads to decreased vision. The lens is important because it focuses images onto the retina at the back of the eye. The image is then processed and sent to the brain. As a cataract matures, it often causes glare, as well as diminished contrast and color sensitivity. Over time, if left untreated, cataracts lead to decreased vision. The good news is the risk of developing cataracts can be reduced,” according to Friends for Sight.
Although studies show women are found to be more at risk for developing cataracts, having a routine comprehensive eye exams is the best way to detect and treat them to prevent vision loss.
Dry eye syndrome occurs when you don’t produce enough tears or they evaporate before they are able to lubricate your eyes. Chronic lack of sufficient moisture and lubrication to the eye surface results in inflammation and irritation to the eye. Women are 2-3 times more likely to develop dry eye syndrome.
Diabetic Retinopathy Women in their 50s, 60s and 70s with diabetes are most at risk for this disease. Diabetic retinopathy occurs when the small blood vessels inside the retina swell, leak fluid or close off completely due to elevated blood sugar levels. But, you can take steps to prevent diabetic retinopathy with tight control of blood sugar and blood pressure levels. It is also critical to see your ophthalmologist regularly for diabetic retinopathy screening exams.
Routine Eye Exam
Unfortunately, many eye diseases cannot be cured, but many of them can be treated and prevented. The American Optometric Association recommends having a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year, “Periodic eye and vision examinations are an important part of preventive health care. Many eye and vision problems have no obvious signs or symptoms. As a result, individuals are often unaware that problems exist. Early diagnosis and treatment of eye and vision problems are important for maintaining good vision and eye health, and when possible, preventing vision loss.”
Don’t put if off any longer, schedule your comprehensive eye exam today with Lake Nona Eye Care or call us at 407-658-9990