• Problems in reading: As one ages, it becomes difficult to read close objects easily. This is known as presbyopia. This problem arises due to the decrease in the elasticity of the eye lens. Simple reading glasses can correct this problem.
  
• Tearing of the eyes: Eyes become more sensitive to wind and light as people age. Dry eyes are one of the causes of increased tearing. To avoid this problem, one should wear sunglasses.
  
• Floaters: You may notice little specks floating across your eyes when you enter a bright room. These are small clumps of cells in the vitreous fluid that fills the eye. Floaters are harmful and occur naturally with age. An eye doctor should be consulted immediately.
  
• Cataract: The eye lens is made up of protein. When these protein molecules clump, they form a cloudy spot on the lens, which is known as the cataract. Cataract surgeries are the best solution to this problem.
  
• Retinal Detachment: In this condition, the retinal layer gets detached from the underlying tissue of the eye. If untreated, retinal detachment can lead to loss of vision or blindness. Treatment and surgery can help.
  
• Age related macular degeneration: This usually affects older adults. It results in loss of vision in the center of the visual field (the macula) because of damage caused to the retina. It occurs in ‘dry’ and ‘wet’ forms. It is a major cause of visual impairment in older adults (>50 years).
  
• Glaucoma: In such a condition, the optic nerve is damaged, leading to progressive, irreversible loss of vision. It is usually, but not always, associated with increased pressure of the fluid in the eye. Unfortunately glaucoma is typically associated with painless and progressive loss of vision that may escape detection by the patient. So, patients with a family history of glaucoma should go for eye examination.

Regular eye exams can help detect these vision problems at early stages before they become a serious disorder.

Times Wellness workshop on “Eye problem” at Apollo Hospitals, Sarita Vihar on 31st August’10 from 3.30-5pm. All are cordially invited. For free registration call 011-23782319,29871840.