Expert’s answer:
After 40, many people begin to notice a deterioration in their vision. This is a completely natural process caused by age-related changes.
Decreased accommodative capacity of the lens
By age 40, our lens loses its elasticity and ability to change shape to focus on close objects. This is known as presbyopia. If you used to be able to read small text without problems, you will now likely need reading glasses. This is because your eyes can no longer focus as easily at different distances as they once could.
Manifestation of astigmatism
Astigmatism, which may have been almost unnoticeable in youth, begins to manifest itself after 40 years. A decrease in the compensatory reserves of the lens means that the eyes can no longer compensate for the curvature of the cornea. This leads to a decrease in visual acuity, the appearance of glare and halos around light sources, especially at night. Such symptoms can cause significant discomfort and eye fatigue.
General condition of the body
The condition of the eyes is closely related to the general condition of the body. After 40 years, the condition of the blood vessels, blood pressure and blood sugar levels begin to play a decisive role. The eyes are especially sensitive to changes in the circulatory system. Ophthalmologists are often the first to notice signs of hypertension or diabetes, detecting changes in the retina and other structures of the eye.
Age-related changes in the retina
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the most serious retinal diseases that can manifest itself after the age of 40. There are two forms of AMD: dry and wet. The dry form develops slowly and is characterized by the gradual destruction of the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for clear central vision. The wet form is more aggressive and can cause a sharp decrease in vision due to the abnormal growth of blood vessels under the macula. Newly formed vessels differ from healthy ones, they are fragile, excessively porous, can leak and form hemorrhages, which ultimately leads to the formation of scar tissue and irreversible loss of vision.
How to cope with deteriorating vision?
Regular visits to the ophthalmologist
Regular visits to an ophthalmologist are an important step in maintaining eye health. An ophthalmologist can identify problems early and prescribe corrective measures. Regular checkups are especially important for people with eye pathology, as well as chronic diseases of the body in general, such as diabetes or hypertension, since the eyes can be the first target of serious changes in the body.
Glasses and contact lenses
Reading glasses and contact lenses are the most common methods of vision correction. Presbyopia may require special glasses for close-up work. For people with astigmatism, there are toric glasses or contact lenses that help correct the distortion.
Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle plays a key role in maintaining your vision. Eating a healthy diet with foods rich in antioxidants (such as vitamins A, C, and E) helps maintain eye health. And regular exercise improves blood circulation and reduces the risk of developing diseases that can affect vision.
Control of sugar levels and blood pressure
Controlling sugar and blood pressure is especially important for people with diabetes and hypertension. High sugar and high blood pressure can cause serious eye complications, including diabetic retinopathy and hypertensive retinopathy.
UV protection
Ultraviolet rays can damage your eyes and contribute to the development of cataracts and macular degeneration. Using sunglasses with UV filters helps protect your eyes from the harmful effects of the sun’s rays.
Eye exercises
Exercises can help maintain the eye’s accommodative apparatus and relieve eye fatigue. Simple exercises such as focusing on objects at different distances, moving your eyes in different directions, and taking frequent breaks when working at a computer can significantly improve your eyesight.