Page 37 - Seniors Today - April Issue

and near every few years. Some people have
rapidly changing plus far and near powers.
On the plus side, this usually happens after
the late 30s and early 40s onwards when
the far powers start to increase on the plus
side along with the near increase.
13. Generalised hazy vision usually
happens from a cataract. Cataract is
haziness in the natural lens in the eye,
causing hazy vision that can be very easily
treated if one goes at the right time. Going
to a doctor with a fully mature cataract can
sometimes lead to complications. That,
however, thankfully is very rare. There are
Avoid rubbing the eyes vigorously as it can make the cor- various kinds of lenses that are implanted
nea go out of shape, a condition known as keratoconus
now that can help do away with most of
if it is associated with poor vision. This one’s spectacle dependence post-procedure.
could be the start of the wet type of macular Like extended depth of focus lenses that do
degeneration, not the typical safer dry type not have the drawback of haloes seen with
that one could get with age. trifocal lenses.
9. Controlling diabetes and high blood
pressure well is very important for long- This is a synopsis of common problems.
term good health of the eyes. Diabetes, if The most important thing is to visit the eye
uncontrolled or even if long-standing, can doctor annually.
lead to cataract and cause bleeding in the
retina. Cataract surgery is done earlier
nowadays unlike the old theory of waiting
till it completely mature and one loses
vision. It should be done once there’s a
disability or one is unable to perform one’s
daily activities.
10. Rapidly changing powers can be the
only sign of glaucoma or cataract. So if your
spectacle numbers are changing quite often,
then one should go immediately to a doctor
and get the eye pressures checked.
11. Headache and pain around the eyes
can be from excessive strain of near work,
wrong spectacles, low blood pressure or
sinusitis. In India it’s very often sinusitis.
There are simple do’s and don’ts that help
treat the condition. Keep a focused light on your reading material, so that you
12. Expect a change in plus powers for far don’t experience vision problems

SENIORS TODAY | ISSUE #22 | APRIL 2021 37