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Routine eye exams across all age groups can catch hidden problems before they become sight-threatening
Timely diagnosis, regular monitoring, and early intervention remain our most powerful tools in preserving vision for life
Many eye conditions may seem minor initially but can lead to serious, irreversible consequences if left unnoticed or untreated. These conditions can be grouped according to the age at which they typically present. Dr. K Harsha, Head, Clinical Services, Banashankari, Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital shares all you need to know:
Newborns and Young Children
Sometimes, a newborn may have unusually large eyeballs particularly large corneas. This could indicate buphthalmos or congenital glaucoma, a condition marked by very high intraocular pressure (IOP). It is a medical emergency that requires prompt surgical intervention to reduce eye pressure and preserve the child’s vision.
Parents may also notice a white reflex in the pupil, which could stem from a range of causes from corneal cloudiness and congenital cataract to retinal tumors. Any obstruction in the visual pathway can result in visual deprivation. If not treated early, this can lead to amblyopia (lazy eye), causing permanent loss of visual potential. Cataracts can often be managed with surgery and the implantation of an intraocular lens, while retinal tumors require aggressive treatment, as some may be life-threatening.
Children and Young Adults
A common presentation in children is a squint in one eye. This may result from uncorrected refractive errors or extraocular muscle disorders. Refractive errors are one of the most common causes of preventable childhood blindness, and a simple pair of glasses can restore vision. Early correction can prevent the onset of amblyopia. Ideally, routine eye examinations should be conducted for all children by the age of 3–4, even in the absence of complaints, to detect any hidden abnormalities.
Another frequent issue is excessive eye rubbing, often related to allergies. While this may initially be managed with anti-allergic eye drops, persistent rubbing can lead to keratoconus, a condition where the cornea becomes misshapen and thinned, causing frequent changes in spectacle power and potentially severe complications. Timely allergy management in early life can help prevent its progression.
Adults
Almost all adults develop age-related near-sightedness (presbyopia) around age 40. At this stage, it’s crucial to begin routine monitoring of intraocular pressure (IOP). Increased IOP can damage the optic nerve, leading to glaucoma, a silent, irreversible disease that often goes unnoticed until the advanced stage. Regular screening can help detect and manage glaucoma early.
Adults especially those with diabetes should also be screened for diabetic retinopathy. If detected early, it can be effectively treated to preserve vision and avoid progression.
Another concern in older adults is advanced cataract, such as brown or white cataracts. If not operated on in time, they can rupture and cause inflammation or complications, sometimes requiring emergency treatment. Therefore, cataract surgery is recommended when daily activities begin to be affected, rather than waiting for the cataract to fully mature.
For All Age Groups
Any eye trauma, regardless of severity, must be promptly and thoroughly examined. Untreated injuries can lead to complications later, which may be more difficult to manage or reverse.
Routine eye exams across all age groups can catch hidden problems before they become sight-threatening. Timely diagnosis, regular monitoring, and early intervention remain our most powerful tools in preserving vision for life.
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More
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