Our eyes play a vital role in how we perceive the world around us. Unfortunately, as we get older, the eyes can gradually lose their ability to function correctly, leading to vision impairment.

Many factors can lead to eye discard, and it’s essential to be aware of them so that we can take the necessary steps to protect our eyesight. In this article, we will go over the top causes of eye discard and why they occur.

Natural Aging

One of the most common causes of eye discard is natural aging. As we grow older, the muscles in our eyes become weaker, making it harder for the eyes to focus.

Additionally, the lenses in our eyes become less flexible, leading to difficulty seeing objects up close.

Cataracts

Another significant factor that can cause eye discard is cataracts. Cataracts occur when the lens in the eye becomes cloudy, making it difficult to see clearly.

While cataracts are common in older adults, they can also develop in younger people due to injury, medication use, and certain medical conditions.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that cause damage to the optic nerve. This nerve is responsible for sending visual information from the eye to the brain. When the optic nerve is damaged, it can lead to vision loss.

In many cases, glaucoma develops slowly and without noticeable symptoms. Therefore, it’s essential to visit an eye doctor regularly to identify and treat glaucoma before it causes significant vision impairment.

Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is an eye disease that causes damage to the macula, which is responsible for sharp central vision. As the macula deteriorates, it can lead to blind spots in the center of our vision.

Macular degeneration is most commonly seen in individuals over the age of 50, and it can lead to severe vision impairment.

Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition that affects the body’s ability to process sugar, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. High blood sugar levels can cause damage to the small blood vessels in the eyes, leading to diabetic retinopathy.

This condition can cause vision impairment and blindness if left untreated.

UV Radiation

Exposure to UV radiation can cause long-term damage to the eyes. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can increase the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye conditions.

It’s essential to wear UV-protective sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat when spending time outside, particularly during the peak sun hours of 10 am to 4 pm.

Genetics

Some eye conditions, such as glaucoma and macular degeneration, have a genetic component. Individuals with a family history of these conditions are at an increased risk of developing them.

It’s essential to be aware of your family history and discuss it with your eye doctor so that appropriate measures can be taken to protect your eye health.

Medications

Some medications can cause eye discard as a side effect. For example, corticosteroids, which are commonly used to treat inflammation, can increase the risk of cataracts and glaucoma.

It’s essential to discuss any medication use, both prescription and over-the-counter, with your doctor to identify any potential side effects.

Smoking

Smoking is detrimental to overall health, including eye health. Smoking can increase the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and optic nerve damage.

Additionally, smoking can exacerbate other underlying conditions that can cause eye discard, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure can cause damage to the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to vision impairment. When left untreated, high blood pressure can cause damage to the optic nerve and severe vision loss.

It’s essential to manage high blood pressure through lifestyle changes and medication so that eye health is not compromised.

Conclusion

Eye discard is a common occurrence as we age; however, many factors can cause it to occur earlier or more severely. By being aware of the top causes of eye discard, we can take proactive measures to protect our eye health.

Regular eye exams, proper nutrition, and protective eyewear are key components in maintaining healthy eyes. Additionally, managing underlying conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure can help preserve eye health for years to come.