Eyesight is one of our most important senses, and loss of vision greatly impacts a person’s quality of life and health.  But today we have far more opportunities to minimize vision loss and some problems can be corrected through minimally invasive laser surgery. Here are the top 3 reasons for diminished vision as we age:

1. Cataracts
2. Glaucoma
3. Macular Degeneration

Cataracts are the most common vision loss issue in aging adults.  Cataracts cloud the lens of the eye as you age, causing blurry vision, discolored vision, halos, and trouble seeing – particularly while driving at night.  Fortunately, Cool Springs Surgical Associates led by Dr. Aaron Porter, board certified in Ophthamology as well as Optometry, is a leading Cataract Surgeon in the South Eastern United States.  He has performed more than 20,000 cataract surgeries and has one of only 5 surgical centers in the U.S. using the most technologically advanced Laser Assisted Cataract Surgery Software.

Glaucoma is another common vision problem as we age, though it can occur in younger people, depending on the cause.  Glaucoma is usually caused by high pressure within the eye, and can lead to vision loss and blindness.  In the early stages of chronic (slowly developing) glaucoma, there are few symptoms until vision loss has occurred, and cannot be repaired.  That is why it is very important to get a glaucoma test every year after the age of 40.

Macular Degeneration affects more than 10 million Americans, and is considered an incurable eye disease.  It is caused by the deterioration of the central part of the retina called the macula, which focuses the vision in the eye and controls our ability to read, drive, and see clearly.  There are two types of Macular Degeneration – Dry and Wet.  The best way to prevent Dry Macular Degeneration is to eat a healthy diet, with a variety of vitamins and minerals, exercise regularly, and avoid tobacco use.  One treatment for Wet Macular Degeneration is anti-VEGF therapy.  These drugs are injected in to eye to stop the growth of abnormal blood vessels.

Dr. Porter and his staff have successfully treated many aging patients and work together to restore, improve, and maintain, good eyesight.  Call us today to schedule an eye exam – we simply want you to see better!